
Book : 




•H 








• THE 

HISTORY 

OF THE 

Castle, Town, and Forest, 

OF 



Harrogate* 

AND IT'S MEDICINAL SPRINGS : 
Including an Account of 

THE MOST REMARKABLE PLACES, IN THE NEIGHBOURHOOD ; 
THE CURIOUS REMAINS OF ANTIQUITY; ELEGANT BUILDgfcS; 
ORNAMENTED GROUNDS ; AND OTHER SINGULAR rRODUCTloVof 

NATURE AND ART, 

The hoary rocks, the falling towVs, 
The stately domes, and shady bow'rs; 
The verdant fields, and pendant wood. 
On NIDD's meand'ring silver flood. 

By E. HARGROVE. 

WITH CONSIDERABLE ADDITIONS. 

KNARESBROUGH: 

PIIINTED BY HARGROVE AND SONS; 

AND SOLD, 

BV THEM, AT KNARESBROUGH^^AiKil HAR|jaaATi|^ 



BY WILKIE AND ROBINSON, YoN©0]3 

T7ILS0N AND SON, YORK; AND ALL 

OTHER BOOKSELLERS* 

1809. 

^5 



'^vS 






THE FOLLOWING 

AftZ S£L£CT£D, 

From numerous oilier Testimonies^ 

IN FAVOR OP 

THE SEVERAL EDITIONS OF THIS BOOK. 

" This little volume, which we had, by some acci- 
dent, mislaid, will be particularly acceptable, to those who 
visit Harro,-;ate ; and, who may choose to make excursions 
from thence, to the naghbouring towns, gentlemen's seats, &c., 
&c .*' Monthly Review, for October, 1785. 

" Hargrove's History of the Castle, Town, ^d Fo^ 
Test of Knar eibrough, Sec. — An entertaining little book ; which, 
the inquisitive traveller will find well worth his perusal." 

Gentleman's Mag., for January, 1786, 

" Mr. Hargrove, several of whose papers have 
enriched our magazine, (under the signature of E. H., K.) 
presents us with a considerably enlarged edition, of his His-- 
iory of Knaresbreugh ; accompanied with a well-engraved Map, 
of nearly eight wapentakes ; and notices, at least, 60 places, 
in the environs of Harrogate. 

On the whole, this book appears to be executed in a man^ 
ner, superior to most works of the kind ; and, whilst it shews 
the exactness of the author, it evinces his knowledge of the 
antiquities of which he treats.'* 

Gentleman* s Mag., for May, 1789. 

See, also, i)(?c/f?ri?(rfj*j. New Cyclopedia ; vol.V.; arti= 
cle, Boroughb ridge. 



COJ^TEMTS. 



STAGE L. 



K. 



NARESBROUGH TOWN. — - 

Church. Castle. Saint Robertas 

chapel. — Fort'Montague. — Dropping' 
well .,•««,•,.«• 1 

^ STAGE IL. 

Forest of Knaresbrongh. — -Harrogate. 
-'^HarloW'hilL^-^PannaL --^Beckwith' 
shaw.'-^ Heywra-park. — Fewstone.'"^ 
Hampsthwaite. — Clint. — Killinghall . 106 

STAGE III. 

Harrogate^ to Bilton-park. — Coiiyngham-- 
house. — Scriven.-^Scotton. — Farnham. 
— - Copgrove.'^'^Brereton. — Nidd^ — — 
Ripley • . . . . 141 

STAGE IV.. 
Harrogate^ to Almias-cliff. — Hareicood^ 



CONTENTS. 11 

"^Leeds. — KirJcstall^abbey.--'^ Wake^ 
Jield.^^SandaL — Pontefract • • • ITS 

STAGE v.. 

Harrogate^ to Ripon. — Studley^-^^Hack* 
fall. — Masliam. — Tanfield . . . 213 

STAGE VL. 

Harrogate^ to Goldesburgh. — Ribstone. — 
Deighton.-'^Cowthorp, — Uunsingore . 260 

STAGE VIL. 

Harrogate^ to Plumpton. — Spofford. — 
Wetherby. — Tlwrp-Arck. — Bramham" 
park. — Haslewood. — Tadcaster . .• 284 

STAGE VIIL. 

Harrogate^ to Boroughbridge. — Newby. — 
Thornton-bridge. — Topcliffe • . . 308 

STAGE IX.. 

Harrogate, to Brimham-rocks • . • 349 
STAGE X.. 

Harrogate, to Allerton^Mauleverer.-"*^ 
Whixley. — Kirby-hall. — Nun-Monk^' 
ton^—'Benningburgh.^^Red'house . . 360 



i2 CONTENTS. 

STAGE XL. 

Harrogate^ to Bluhber-houses.'^Brand^ 
rith'Craggs.^-^Bolton^abbey.'-^Skipton 384 

STAGE XII.. 

Harrogate^ to Farnley, — NewhalL^^Ot'' 
ley. — Ilkley^'-^Denton. — Weston. . . 396 



An account of the rarer plants, and 
shrubs^ in the neighbourhood of KnareS" 
brough ••••«••«•• 406 

Jtoads . ^ .••.,•«• « 414 




fifetotp 



OF 

KMARESEROUGM, ' 

"Far to the north, where bold Brigantian kings 
" Kurd awful, ere the martial clime was hail'd 
*' By the lov'd name of York." 

JL HE origin of the first inhabitants of this island 
is not to be traced with any degree of certainty ; all 
the assistance that tradition can furnish, is vague and 
unsatisfactory. The universal opinion is, that it was 
peopled, at various times, from different parts of the 
continent; and, also, that some colonies were planted 
here by the Greek and Phoenician merchants. Julius 
Caesar observes, that he found the sea-coasts peopled 
vrith Belgians, who still retained the names of the 
several states from whence they were descended. 
Colony propelling colony, still farther and farther! into 
the country; these, in process of time, formed them- 
selves into petty states, seventeen of which were esta- 
blished in Britain, before the mvi^ of the Bomans, 
B 



14 HISTORY OF 

The most numerous* of these principalities were the 
Brig ANTES, q. d. Brigyntwys^^ or first comers, whose 
dominion extended over all that region, which is now 
divided into the five counties of York, Durham, West* 
moreland, Cumberland, and Lancaster ; in which ex* 
tent, near twenty cities owned their subjection to 
IsEUR*, which, being the capital of the most power* 
ful state in Britain, must, of course, have been thea 
the chief city in the island.! 

Six miles south-west of the scite of this Brigantian 
capital, and eighteen miles west by north of York, and 
in the wapentake of Claro, West-Riding of York* 
shire, and diocese of Chester, stands KNARES* 
BROUGH, evidently deriving its name from its situ* 
ation on a rocky mountain, J at the foot of which runs 
the river Nidd. It is one of those ancient burghs that 
were part of the demesnes of the Crown, found under 
the title of Terra Regis^ in Domesday Book, and other 
records •, all which, and the lands belonging to them» 
were held by royal grant |I. Littleton observes, that 
burghs are the most ancient towns in England j such 

• Tacitus Agric. Vit. C. 17. 
t Warrington's History of Wales. 
• Itineraries of Antoniaus ana Richard ot Cirencester, 
t Now a village* called Aldbrough, near Boroughbridgc, Torkshirt^ 
J Knares, (German) a bard knot; which, when applied to situation^ 
dignihes a rocky mountain j as Furktuaiuot, ia Wc&Uaoi^Ia&d; Ktfd' 
XootHill,in Cumberland^ &c.* 
4 Brady* co £ujg9» 



KNARESBROTTGH. 15 

fituations were chosen, by the Saxons, as being already 
places of strength, to erect their castles upon. 

The enjoyment of a manumission from slavery, a 
separate jurisdiction, and other valaable privileges* 
granted to the communities inhabiting such places, by 
the payment of a fixed tax or rent, appears not to have 
taken place in England till about the year 1 199, whea 
King John, in order to lessen the power of his barons, 
erected several of his demesne towns into free burghs j 
but, we do not find that Knaresbrough enjoyed that 
privilege, till the year 1311. Before the institution of 
such communities, persons of noble birth resided at 
their castles, where each kept his petty court, attend- 
ed by his vassals, who received from him education in 
all military exercises ; his hospitality invited them ta 
enjoy society in his hall ; their leisure made them per- 
petual retainers on his person 5 they partook of his 
sports and amusements; and, their greatest ambition 
was to make a figure in his train : his favor was their 
greatest honor ; his displeasure exposed them to con- 
tempt and ignominy; and they felt, every moment, the 
necessity of his protection. Self-preservation obli- 
ging every man to court the protection of some pow- 
erful baron, his castle was the place to which all 
resorted for safety, in times of danger. But towns, 
guarded by immunities, and surrounded with ramparts, 
whose inhabitants were bound by interest, as well as 
the most solemn engagements, reciprocally to defend 
B 2 



16 HISTORY OP 

each other, afforded a more commodious and secure 
retreat. 

The situation of Knaresbrough exactly agrees with 
the description given of the towns of the ancient Bri- 
tons j placed on the bank of a river, for the sake of 
water ; and, on the skirt of a large forest, for the conve- 
niency of hunting, and pasture for their cattle. As 
these inviting circumstances were more conspicuous 
in some parts of the country than others, the princes 
or chiefs made choice of these places for their resi- 
dence; a number of their followers and dependants 
built their huts as near them as they could, and also 
erected stalls, for their cattle, within the same limits* 
A town or city thus made, they fortified all round with 
a ditch and rampart of earth; and, if any danger was 
suspected, they blocked up all the entrances with trees, 
cut down, and heaped one upon another. The remains 
of a ditch and rampart, may yet be traced here, which 
include an area of 900 feet long, by 600 broad. 

Every part of these ramparts would command an 
extensive view of distant country; from whence the 
inhabitants might, with great advantage, watch everj 
motion of an enemy, and stand prepared to repel every 
hostile approach. 



KNARESBROUGir. 



17 




1. The north angle, near Row- gap. 

2. The east angle, near Pinfold-Hill. 

3. The south angle, T. Cass's garden. 

4. The west angle,, neai' Parnassus-Mount. 



In Roman times, this may probably have been one 

of those forts, formed not only for securing the road 

just entering the wild region of the forest, but such a 

one as they usuaUy placed at some little distance from 

B3 



18 ' HISTORY OF 

the larger stations, and fixed them on the most advan- 
tageous scites that the places afforded, and fortified 
them, not with a rampart of stone, but only with large 
ditches, and placed a small garrison within them. 
Several Roman coins have been found here, particu- 
larly some of the Emperors Claudius and Constantine* 

The remains of a roman camp were discovered, at 
Neuwied, on the banks of the Rhine, in the year 1801. 
The figure was rectangular, 840 feet in length, and 63 1 
in breadth ; including a space of very near the same 
dimensions as that included by the ancient ramparts 
of Knaresbrough. 

For several centuries after the departure of the 
Romans, this part of the country, in particular, was 
dreadfully harassed by contending armies. Malmes- 
bury observes, "That it was always exposed to the 
** fury of the nothern nations, received the barbarous 
** shocks of the Danes, and groaned under repeated 
** devastations.'* 

The Saxons finally prevailed, and rather extermi« 
nated than subdued the ancient inhabitants ; in conse- 
quence of which, they preserved, unaltered, all their 
civil and military institutions. The language was pure 
Saxon ; even the names of places were almost all af- 
fixed by the conquerors, whose manners and customs 
■were wholly German. Veistegau informs us, that^ 



KKARESBROUGH. 19 

about thh period, the language of England, Saxony, 
and the Netherlands, wei c all the same. 

Whatever was the condition of Knaresbrough 
before the Conquest, with regard to its privileges, 
vre find it at that period, a complete Saxon manor ; q. d. 
one township presiding over ten others,* as appeai^s b/ 
the following extract from Doomsday-Book : 

In Knaresbrough, six carucates ; Walkingham, three 
carucates, wanting two oxgangs ; Ferensby, three ca- 
rucates, wanting two oxgangs; Scriven, six carucates; 
Birstwith, four carucates ; Fuston, three carucates ; 
Brareton, six carucates ; Sosacre, oneca^ucate; Catont 
two carucates ; Farnham, three carucates ; Stainley, two 
carucates. In all, forty-two carucates of land, wanting 
a half j twenty-four whereof were arable. King 
Edward had this manor in demesne : It was, at this 
time, in the hands of the Conqueror, and waste. In 
the time of King Edward, it was valued at six poundi 
tent', but, at this time, pays twenty shillings. 

A carucate is, as much land as may be tilled and 
laboured with one plough, and the beasts belonging 
thereto, in a year; having meadow, pasture, and 
houses, for the householders and cattle. 

By Ibis survey, it appears that Knaresbrough and 
its Villages had sufFejed in thti general dijvastatioa 

• WhiUker's Maudieicer, vol. XL, p U9. 



90 HISTORY OF 

made by the ruthless and cruel Norman ; -svho, after the 
siege of York, in the year 1070, laid waste all the 
country betwixt that city and Durham. ** The houses 
were reduced to ashes 5 the cattle seized, and driven 
away; and many of the inhabitants perished in the 
woods, from cold and hunger. The lives of one hun- 
dred thousand persons are computed to have been 
sacrificed by this stroke of barbarous policy."* — hume. 

A Saxon fortress, probably gave place to the strong 
castle built here, by Serlo de Burgh, baron of 
Tonsburgh, in Normandy, who, with his brother John, 
accompanied the Conqueror, in his expedition to Eng- 
land, and received this, along with several other 
manors, as a reward for his services. Serlo was suc- 
ceeded by his brother John Monoculus, (so called from 
his having but one eye), who married Magdalen, aunt 
to Stephen, king of England, and was guardian to that 
king's brother : He had issue Richard the Red, who 
left, among other children, Jeffrey, bishop of Ely. 
The eldest son, Eustace Fitz- John, succeeded as Lord 
of Knaresbrough, and resided at his castle here, as 
appears by the monks of Fountains recording his gene- 
rous presents sent to them, when in great distress** 

Eustace Fitz- John appeared in arms, amongst 
the enemies of Stephen, espousing the cause of the 
empress Maud 3 but, not succeeding in that enterprise, 

* Burtoa's Monasticon, p. 142, 



knAresbrougk, 21 

hd retreated into Scotland, and was present in the se- 
cond line of the Scots army, at the battle of North- 
Allerton, in the year 1138; after which, he lived to see 
Henry II. ascend the throne of England, and fell, 
fighting in his cause against the Welch, in the year 
1156. 

In the year 1 1 70, the four knights who slew Thomas a 
Becket, fled, for refuge, to this castle. Sir Hugh 
DE MoRViLLE, whose descendants were settled in 
Cumberland, where the sword, with which he slew 
Thomas a Becket, was kept a long time, in memory 
of the fact; his family is extinct: Sir Richard 
BRETON, of which name, a good family at this day is 
extant in Northamptonshire: Sir William Tra- 
ce y, whose heirs at this day flourish in Gloucestershire. ' 
Sir Reginald Fitz-Urse, or Bear's Son; his 
posterity were afterwards men of great lands and com- 
mand, in the county of Monaghan, in Ireland ; being 
there called Mac Mahon, which in Irish signifies the 
son of a Bear. They remained here, shut up, for a 
3^ear ; but, submitting to the church, were pardoned, 
on condition of performing a pilgrimage to Jerusalem* 

Robert de Estotville succeeded Eustace, as 
Lord of Knaresbrougb, immediately on that noble- 
man's retreat into Scotland, and was also present m 
the English army, at the battle of North- AUerton ; 
whose son, Robert, was one of those five English 



22 HISTORY OP 

gentlemen, who, at the head of four hundred horse, 
surprised and took William king of Scotland prisoner, 
within sight of his own camp, near Alnwick, in the 
year 1174. 

In the year 12S2, Brian de Insula had agrant of 
this lordship during the king's pleasure. After this, it 
came again to the crown ; and was granted, by Henry 
III., to Hubert de Burgh, earl of Kent, and Mar- 
garet, his wife, and to their heirs, in fee and inheri- 
tance; rendering for the same, to the king and his 
heirs, yearly, at his exchequer, one hundred pounds^ 
for all services and demands. The son of Hubert^ 
joining the standard of Simon de Montfordy at the 
battle of Evesham, August 5, 1265, this manor again 
escheated to the crown, and was granted, by the same 
Monarch, in the year 1257, to his brother Richard^ 
Earl of Cornwall, who founded the priory here, 
about this time. Richard, dying, left his estates to his 
son Edmond, Earl of Cornwall, who died without 
issue, A. D. 1300: w^herebythe Earldom of Cornwall 
reverted to the crown, and with it, also, the manor of 
Knaresbrough, 

Edward II. having created P^t'er Gaveston, a 
gentleman of Gascoigne, Earl of Cornwall, granted to 
him also the manors which had belonged to Edmond 
the late Earl, amongst which was Knaresbrough : This 
favorite, from the improper use he made of the great 



KNARESB110T7CH. 49 

^rtiality shown him by his royal master, drew upon 
himself the resentment of many cf the most ancient 
and po\v€rful of the nobility, ^vhose united efforts, at 
length prevailed on Edward to consent to his banish- 
ment. After an absence of more than two years, he 
returned and joined the king at York ; at which time, a* 
mongst many other favors, he received a confirmation 
of his former grant of the manor of Knaresb rough, with 
many additional privileges, by a charter, dated at York, 
August the 1 6th, 1311, which recites; "Thatthesaid 
•* Earl, and his heirs, shall have and freely enjoy the 
•* said honor and manor, with the parks of La Haye, 
•* Bilton, and Heywra: That Knaresbrough be a Free 
** Burgh, and the men, inhabiting the same, be Free 
•• Burgesses. That they shall have one market and 
*' one fair, with the assize of bread and ale. That the 
•• said Earl and his heii-s have free chase in all the lands 
•* belonging to the said honor; the privilege of judg- 
•* ing malefactors, taken either within or without of 
^ the said manor j and shall have one gibbet* and one 
** gallows^ for the execution of such offenders, and be 
•* entitled to all their cattle and goods ♦, together with 
** all those animals called waives. That they shall have 
** the return of all writs j also two coroners, whose 
*• jurisdiction shall extend over all the County of 
*• York. And that the said inhabitants shall be fi ec 

# Gibbet-Hill, near two miles from Knaresbrougb, oo the ItfX of U)^ 
f«a4 leading from ti^euce w Borouglibndge 
i GaUow-HUl, noi tar fioot tbe Dropping- WcU* 



f€4 HISTORY O*. 

, '* of all fines and amercements for toll, pontage, njp-* 
** riage, pannage, &:c., throughout the whole king- 

. «* dom." Vide Records in the Tower of London^ Rof.^ 
CartUth., Edwd.JL, N. 43. 

While the king remained at York, expecting a visit 
from the Scots, he gave orders for the fortification of 
that city to be repaired, and all the fortresses in its 
vicinity to be put in a proper state of defence. The 
, following is a copy of a mandate sent by that Monarch 
to W illiam de Slingsby, keeper of the forfeited manor 
of the Templars, at Ribston, commanding him to fur- 
nish the castle of Knaresbrough with a large quantity 
of stores. 

** Mandatum est Willielmo de Slengesby, custo* 
'* di Manerii Templariorum deRibbestayn in comitatu 
*' Eboraci, in manu Regis existentis, quod de exitibus 
** manerii prsedicti habere faciat constabulario castri de 
^ ^^ Knaresburgh, centum quarteria frumenti, decern 
*^ quarteria avense, viginti boves, et quater viginti 
** multones, et duas bigas ferratas, promunitione cas- 
** tri prsedicti: Et Rexisibi inde, in compoto suo de 
** exitibus prsedictis, debitam allocationem habere fa- 

. ** ciat. ^Teste Rege apud Eboracum, 21 die Ja- 

^^ ** nuarii. Per ipsum Regem, nuntiante WiliielmQ.de 
•' Melton/* ■' '■ B ymer's Fosdera, vol JIL.p. 219. 

The s^me yeax GavestqBjj beiiigVigorously besieged. 



KNARESBROrGir. 25 

by the barons, in Scarbrough castle, was compelled to 
surrender himself into their hands, who, soon after, 
led him to the block, without even the formality of a 
trial. 

1314. The king, being at York, issued out com- 
missions of array to all the country round; one of 
which was directed to William de Ponteburgh, and 
Robert de Weston, commanding them to raise, with 
all speed, within Knaresbrough and its liberty, all the 
defencible men between the ages of sixteen and sixt}^ 
as well horsemen as foot j each man to be duly arrayed, 
according to his estate ; and, being so arrayed, to lead, 
them to the king, with whom they were to march a* 
gamst the Scots. 

From Humberts streams, whose tumbling waves resound. 

And deafen all the adjoining coasts around. 

To where the Tweed in softer windings flows. 

Full fifty thousand quiver'd warriors rose;-— 

A hardy race, who, well experienced, knew 

To fit the shaft- and twang the bended yevii 

Bred up to danger, and inur'd to dare 

In distant iight, and aim the feather'd war; 

These bands their country's highest triumphs boast; 

And GLOCESTEa and HERTFOllD led the host. 

In the year 1319, the Scots, entering England, laid 
Avaste the country with fire and sword. At Ripon they 
staid three days, and received a thousand marks to 
spare the town, as they did also at North-AUerton ; but, 

whether enraged at the opposition they met with froin 
C 



f6 



HI^ORY OF 



the castles of Skipton and Knaresbrough, or from some 
other motive, certain it is^ they burnt both those to^vns; 
and, continuing their depredations, advanced to the 
^valls of York. After burning the suburbs of that 
city, they returned Northwards. William de 
Melton, archbishop of York, immediately raised 
an army, composed of clergymen, monks, canons, 
husbandmen, laborers, and tradesmen, to the amount 
of ten thousand. With this arm}'^, the archbishop 
overtook the Scots, at Myton, about eleven miles from 
Knaresbrough; a battle ensued, and the Yorkshire- 
men were defeated, and upwards of two thousand of 
them slain. Here fell such a number of ecclesiastics, 
that this fight was, for a long time after, called the 
White Battle, The ravages that marked the progress 
of these hostile invaders, where such as generally at- 
tend an army in an enemy's country, and reduced 
inany of the inhabitants to misery and indigence. Pe- 
titions were presented to the king, then at York, from 
his tenants, at Knaresbrough, and the villages around 
it, praying relief, and setting forth their utter inability 
to pay their respective rents, by reason of the distruc- 

tion made by the Scots. Claus 12mo., Ed, JL, M* 

15. 

1318. This castle was taken by John de Li l burn, 
an officer belonging to the great earl of Lancaster, 
the chief and most powerful of the discontented ba- 

ions. 



KNARESBROUGir. 2? 

Orders were immediately issued, by the kina,-, to 
Nicholas de Grey, high-sheriff of the county of 
York, to attempt the recovery of the place. In con- 
sequence of these orders, the castle was invested ; and 
Lilburn, finding no prospect of relief, surrendered, 
having first destroyed all the records,* and with them 
every written memorial of the liberties, customs, and 
privileges of the place. It was not till the year 1368, 
that those privileges were again in some measure re- 
corded, so far as could be collected from the memories 
of men then living, and enrolled at the court held at 
Knaresb rough, the 10th day of May, in the 42d year 
of the reign of king Edward III. The inquisition 
was taken before Richard Pattrell, deputy steward 
of the lands of Lady Philip pa, the queen of Eng- 
land, beyond Trent, by virtue cf certain letters 
patent, by the commandment of the said queen, to 
him directed, upon the oaths of John Ward, of Farn- 
ham, JohnTurpin, of Arkendale, John Nelson, of 
Arkendale, John Ward, of Scotton, John, the son 
of Walter of Scriven, William Mosier, Thomas in 
the V/ra3% John, the son of Adam, of Connistrope 
Richard Lion, Ralph Leake, Adam Kendall, John 
-Dawson, who say, upon their oaths, that "The 
** burgagers of the borough of Knaresbrough, who 
** now are, and their predecessors, and those whose 
" estates they now possess, have had, and held, in 

• Joiui de Lilbourne tckc the castel of Knaresburgh, the which after 
renderid to Uie iciog upon conditions. -Z^^a/irf's CoUsct., v, II, p. 550. 

c ^ 



^8 HISTORY OF 

'' fee-farm and inheritance, all the site and soil of the 
** borough, with the appurtenances of the demesnes 
*^ of the crown of the lord the king, as of the de- 
** mesnes of Knaresbrough ; which, for the time, werq 
** in fee-farm, yielding to the said lord 7s. 4d. yearh', 
'' at the feast of St. Michael the archangel, only, and 
** making suit to the court of the lord the king a- 
** foresaid there 3 that is to say, from 15 days, to 16 
*' days, when a, writ of right betwixt parties in the 
*' said court, and when any felon shall be to be ad- 
** judged there. But, when such things are not to be 
** done, then to make suit twice in the year; that is, 
*'bnce at the feast of St. Michael, for all services and 
** demands : AlsO; they say, that the said prede* 
** cessors, burgagers, and they whose estates they now 
** have, did levy all the ditches, about the borough 
-*' aforesaid, in their proper soil aforesaid, for the de- 
" FENCE of the said borough, and for their common 
*' use; of which ditches, and of all the sciteand 
*^ soil of the said borough, with the appurtenances, 
** the burgagers have taken all the profits growing 
** upon, or within the said ditches 5 and all the afore* 
** said ditches were made of their proper tenements, 
*' and rented within the rent aforesaid, from the time 
** whereof the memory of man is not to the contrary. 

*' And, because there is neither court-roll or note 
** found since the time of the said lady queen, they 
** thereupon demanded, that those amongst them, who 
" could tell where the true records and ancient notes 



KKARESBROUGIi. ^9 

** of the said lordship were, should speak 5 ^hereunto 
** they say, That one John of Lilburne, who, by 
** stealth, had traitorously surprised the castle and 
** lordship there, and the same held in the time of the 
•* lord king Edward, father of the lord the king 
** that now is, did craftily convey, and cancel all the 
** records and notes being then in the said castle and 
** lordship. . In witness whereoft the said j urors have put 
** their seals to these presents, and have returned the 
" same into the register of the said lady queen there;" 

Certain lands that nearly surrounded the borough, 
were anciently held by a slavish tenure, called Boiid- 
hold; which tenure related to the Terroe Nativi, where- 
by not only the lands and services, but the bodies of the 
natives, and their children after them, were absolutely 
at the disposal of their lord.* This hath long since 
ceased, and a small sum oiily is annually paid by each 
proprietor, cdlledBond-holdr^nt. 

In England, some degree of slavery continued so 
late as the sixteenth century. A commission was is- 
sued by queen Elizabeth, in the year 1574, for in- 
quiring into the lands and goods of all her bond-men 
and bond- women, in order to compound with them for 
their manumission or freedom, that they might enjoy 
their own lands and goods as free men. Vide Lord- 
Kaims's Sketches of Man, Vol J., /?. SQ^, 

* Thoresby^s Antiquities of Leeds* 

c 3 



30 HISTORY OF 

A.D. 1371. The castle, honor, and manor of this 
town, with the house and cell of St. Robert, were 
granted by king Edward III., to his fourth son, 
John of Gaunt, duke of Lancaster: from this 
time it hath belonged to the duchy of Lancaster. 

Henry lord Percy, and his son Hotspur, re- 
flecting on the public measures, were sent for to court 5 
but, refusing to attend, they were banished the realm 
in the year 1398. The year following, they joined 
Henry, duke of Lancaster, while king Richard was 
in Ireland, and assisted him in the measures which 
led to the deposition of that monarch. 

T»E king being returned from Ireland, and hearing 
that the duke of Lancaster was on his march towards 
him, with a numerous army ; took post in the castle 
of Conway. Henry lord Percy was deputed to wait 
upon the king, and, if possible, by stratagem, to draw 
him from the castle, having with him a party of men 
consisting of one hundred lances, and two hundred 
archers j he placed those in a deep valley, between 
two mountains, and approaching, with only seven 
persons in his train, was admitted into the royal pre- 
sence; where, by specious arguments, and solemn 
promises, he persuaded the king, with only twenty- 
two persons in his retinue, to leave the castle of Con- 
way, and take up his residence in that of Flint. When 
Richard was descending into the valley where the am* 



KNARESBROXJGH. 31 

bush was laid, perceiving a number of armed men, 
with the banners of Percy, he could not forbear ex- 
pressing to the lords Salisbury and Carlisle, ( two of 
his attendants) his apprehensions of being betrayed j 
and, turning to Northumberland, told him, if he 
thought he had deceived him, he would instantly return 
to Conway, and spill the last drop in defence of his 
crown and dignity. ** That, by St. George, you 
** shall not do this month," said the earl, "for you must 
•* go with me to the duke of Lancaster,'* and imme- 
diately seized his bridle, when the armed troops sur- 
rounded the king, and conveyed him, a prisoner, to 
the castle of Flint. 

The fallen monarch was afterwards conveyed to the 
castle of Leeds, in Yorkshire j and, from thence, io 
that of Knaresbrough, as appears by the following 
lines in Hardynge s Chronicle : 

« The Kyng then sent Kyng Richard to Ledis, 
" There to be kepte surely in previtee : 

" Fro thens after to Pykering went he nedis, 
" And to Knaresburgh after led was he, 
** But to Pontefrete last, where he did de." 

The place of his confinement is supposed to have 
been in that part of the ruins still called, " The 
King's Chamber."" 

Lord Percy and his son, Sir Henry, flourished 
awhile under that royalty they had been so iustrumen- 



3S HISTORY OT 

tal in establishing ; but, impatient of the least doir- 
troul from a prince they had so essentially served, they 
both took arms, and fell at diiferent periods, fight- 
ing against Henry of Bolingbroke; — Hotspur, at 
Shrewsbury, in the year 1403; the earl, his father, at 
Bramham-Moor, near Wetherby, in Yorkshire, 1407^ 

A. D. 1553. This borough was first summoned to^ 
send members to parliament. 

A. D. 1590. From length of time, and the shocks 
that this castle had sustained in ancient wars, it was 
found to stand in need of considerable repairs. Tli^ 
service w^as begun and completed, under the direction 
of Henry Slingsby, esq., who held the castle and bar- 
bican,* by lease from the queen. The expences at- 
tending these repairs, were, by an order of George, 
earl of Cumberland, then steward of the honor of 
Knaresbrough, to be paid, according to ancient custom, 
by the foresters alone, and that they only should bear 
the whole, by a fair and equal assessment; and, that 
the freeholders, and inhabitants of the soke and liber- 
ty of Knaresbrough, should not be charged with any 
^art thereof 

* This was an out-work, or Antemural before the great gate:— A strong 
and high wall, with turrets upon it, for the defence of the gate and 
draw-bridge, which probably occupied the ground, now called the bowl- 
ing-green* When the ditch happened- to be a dry one, which was the 
rase here, there generally was a subterraneous pjissage, through ^i^icb 
the cavalry could saVy. 



KNARESBHOUGH. 33 

A.D. 16 i6. This castle, honor, and lord>hip» 
were granted, by James I., to his son Charles, nine years 
before that prince ascended the throne of England 5 
iii the troubles of whose unhappy reign, this town 
had a very considerable share. 

1642. Lord Fairfax, being posted at Wetherby, 
intended also to place a garrison in Knaresbrough. 
Th« ancient rampart and ditch of this town had been 
long disused, and, in many places, houses had been 
built, and gardens and orchards planted, on the very 
site, so that little more could be done, than barri- 
cading the different entrances into the town, and mak- 
ing up the want of fortifications, by a strong and vigi- 
lant garrison. The only remains of works, apparently 
liirown up at that time, are part of a large rampart* 
on the west side of the church-yard, which has reached 
from the edge of the cliff, in the parsonage-yard, to 
an orchard near the Bond-end road, where a large 
mount, or bastion, appears standing out from the 
rampart, on which a piece of ordnance being mount- 
ed, would scour the whole length of the line, from 
tiience to the cliff, and, entirely command the Bond- 
end road. The work seems to have turned at this 
bastion, and to have been continued, in a direct line, 
up the hill, into the High-street; and, crossing the said 
street, near the Charity- School, at some distance be- 
hind -which, it again appears to have turned, and join* 
td the north angle of the Old Borough-Dixch, neej: 



34 HISTORY OF 

a place called the Row-Gap, a work very necessary at 
that time, this being the most open part of the town, 

and, of course, the most easy of access.- There 

CLii be no doubt, but that every precaution^ was taken 
also to secure the town on the north-east, and south- 
east, while the river and inaccessible rocks perfectly 
secured it on the south-west -, nor, could any person 
pass over either of the bridges, without being exposed 
to the fire from the castle. 

The following extract, from the memoirs of Col, 
Sir Henry Sungsby, accounts for the failure of 
lord Fairfax, in his intended seizure of Knaresbrough 
for the parliament. 

** General Rut hen comes with twenty-two Scotch 
'* officers, to go to the king, and hearing of Kotham'* 
•' being about Doncaster, sends fromWetherby to my 
•Mord Cumberland, for a convoy j my lord desiies 
** him to come to York, and he would advise with 
** him for the best way. When they met, it was 
*' thought by Skipton would be the safest passage, and 
*' so through Lancashire. I entreated general Ruthen 
** to go by my house, Red-House ^ so be and all the 
** Scotch officers lay the fiist night at my house, and 
*' the next day I waited on them to Knaresbrough, and 
** there provided them a guide for Skipton. Being at 
** Knaresbrough, some of my tenants acquaint me, 
*Vthat a^y ioid Fairfax intends that rJght to put sqme 



KNARESBROUGir. 35 

*^ soldiers into the castle. Herewith I acquainted 
** general Rnthen ; he adviseth me to hold it myself, 
** and draw some soldiers into it; w^hereupon I got 
** the keys of the castle, caused a bed to be carried in, 
** and, that very night comes Sir Richard Hutton, and 
.** part of the train-bands, with commission from my 
** lord of Cumberland, to hold it for the king; so I • 
" resigned, and only laid in the castle that night, and 
'* in that room and lodging built by my father, and 
*' where I had lain when I was very young, being sent 
^* for by my father."* 

Sir Richad Hutton did not long remain go- 
vernor of Knaresbrough ; he either resigned, or was 
superseded by some other person ; as we find that gen- 
tleman amongst the garrison of York, which surren- 
dered to the forces of the pailiament on the 1 6th of 
August, 1644. 

, Col. Edward Crofts, of East-Appleton, in the 
county of York, appears, by a pedigree of the family, 
( certified at Dugdale's visitation, in 1666) to have 
been governor of Knaresbrough-Castle at this time. 
This gentleman was born in the year l604, and died 

• This, perhaps, -was at the time of the discovery of the Gun-Powder 
Plot, when a general alarm overspread the nation, and great numbers 
of persons retired with their familes to the strong-holds of the country; 
at which period, Sir Henry was very young indeed, being born in the 
■5 ear 160I; and thirefore but four years of age, 



86 HISTORY OT 

in 1688, as appears by an inscription on his tonib, 1% 
ihc church-yard of Catterick, in Yorkshire. 

The garrison of Ki^aresbrough, consisting of a 
large nuriiber of he rse and foot, became a terror to 
the surrounding count] y,* insomuch, that scarce a 
iday passed but information was received by the 
^arliauxcnt of the irreparable depredations and wan- 
ton barbarities committed by foraging and maraud- 
ing parties of the king's horse, fiom this town and 
Skipton. After the battle of Marston-Moor, and 
surrender of York, lord Fairfax remained some 
time in that city, purposing to reduce the garrisons 
in the neighbourhood, with all possible expedition. 
In the mean time, colonel Lambert was very ac- 
tive in intercepting their straggling parties. The 
ijatter end of September, this gallant commander 
surprised, and took prisoners, a troop of horse, in 
Craven , ana >ooi. aftei , at Plumpton, near Knares* 
brough, np took one hundred and forty dragoons, 
three captains, ^na man^ othei prisoners, together 
with their commander, colonel Mac Moyler, an 
Irishman. About this time, a partv ot the king^^ 
liorse, from the garrisons of Knareshrough and Skip- 
ton, marched out, with intent to raise the seige ot 
Hemsley-Castle, but were repulsed, with considerable 

♦ 7iwM*5 Parliamenlaiy CbxOBicle* 



KNARESBROUC.n. 37 

Amongst many other sufferers from the rapacity 
of this garrison, Mr. George Marwood is particularly 
mentioned 3 whose house, near Harrogate, was totally 
demohshed, and his personal property destroyed.* 

In the beginning of November, 1644, lord Fair- 
fax, at the head of a division of the Scotch forces, ap- 
peared before Knaresbrough. Finding the garrison 
obstinately determined on resistance, he prepared to 
storm the town; and, on the 12th of the same month, 
began the attack. The garrison defended their ^vorks 
with spirit; but were, at last, obliged to retreat into the 
castle, after losing twenty of their men, who were 
slain in the action, f It is very probable that this at- 
tack was made on the west side of the church-yard, 
and, that the slain were interred near the place where 
they fell, as many human bones have lately been 
found in the orchard, near the bastion before-men- 
tioned. 

Lord Fairfax being how master of the town, 
the castle was closely invested, and as bravely defend- 



* Swindon-Hall; — a farm-house now bears the name, situate on tlie 
left of the road leading from Harrogate to Harewood ; near which are 
seen part of the ruins of the ancient mansion. This house belonged, at 
that time, (as it does at present,) to the Bethel family. Ivlr. ^Marwood 
married a daughter of Sir Walter Bethel,— and resided at Swindon-Hall. 

•^ Whitlock's Memorials. 



38 HISTORY OF 

ed by the resolute garrison, who prolonged the siege 
till the 20th of December, when they surrendered 
upon honorable terms.* 

His lordship found here four pieces of fine ord- 
nance, a large store of arms, powder, and ammuni- 
tion ;. a considerable quantity of specie and plate, to 
the value of fifteen hundred pounds. 

A little before this time, a petition was presented 
to parliament, by Mrs. Bastwick, wife of Dr. Johlt 
Bast"wdck, then a prisoner in the castle of Knares- 
brough, praying relief for her said husband, herself^ 
and children; which petition was favorably received, 
and one hundred pounds ordered to be paid to her. 
Soon after, Dr. Bastwick was released from his/ con- 
finement, being exchanged for colonel Huddleston. 
The crime laid to his charge was, his having wTitten 
a book, entitled, " Flagellum Pontificis et Episcopo- 
rum Latialium," for which, he was fined, in the 
Star-Chamber, 50001., and confined, first in Launces- 
ton, afterwards in Scilly, then in the castle of York> 
and lastly, in that of Knaresbrougb. 



* Oliver Cromwell appears to have beea at Knaresbrougb soon after 
this time, and lodged in the High-street, in a house now the property 
of D<Ir. George Jackson, which was rebuilt some years ago; but, the 
chamber where tliat extracr di nary man J ay is still preser^-ed. Vide GcnU 
Mag,^ March, 1791. 



KNARESBROUGH. 39 

On the 30th of April, 1C46, this castle, with se- 
veral others, were, by an order of the house of com- 
mons, rendered untenable.* The walls and towers 
have ever since been mouldering away 5 yet, even now, 
the elevation of the site, and the remaining fragments 
of its former magnificence, strike the imagination with 
the idea of much strength, and awful importance. 

** The winding labyrinths, the hostile tower, 
** Where danger threaten'd, and tyrannic power, 
*' The jealous drawbridge, and the moat profound, 
** The lonely dungeon, in the cavem'd ground, 
** The sullen dome above those central caves, 
'* Where liv'd one tyrant and a host of slaves!" 

This castle contained near two acres and a half with- 
in its walls, which were flanked with eleven towers; 
these, with several other buildings in the different wards, 
afforded convenience and accommodation for a numer* 
ous garrison. Part of the principal tower is still re- 
maining, and appears to have been built about the 
time of Edward III. It consists of three stories above 
the keep, or du^igeon. The first room, on the ground 
floor, next the river, hath been, /rom time immemorial, 



• Journals of the house of commons, 22 Chutes I.-Resolved, That 
the several castles of Tickhill, Sheffield, Knaresbrough, Cawood, San- 
dall, Boulton, Middleham, Hornsey, Mulgrave, and Creyke, in the coun« - 
ty of York, beiug inland castles, be made ii,ntenable, and n^ garrisoi:^ 
ktipt or maintained in them. 

D e 



40 HISTORY OF 

the repository for the ancient court records,* the keys 
of which are in the joint custody of the steward of 
the honor, and the chief of the Slingsby family. 
Next to this, in the centre, is the Guard-Room, 32 
feet, by 22, with a vaulted roof, supported by two 
massy pillars, which, at the height of six feet, diverge 
and spread all over the roof: In this room is a large 
fire-place, and several recesses; also, a small room on 
one side, formerly the Porter s-Lodge, lighted by a 
cruciform slip, the upper part of which is now broken 
off. Through this Guard-Room was formerly the 
principal entrance into the castle ; the outward gate 
'was defended by a portcullis and a draw-bridge, that 
fell across a very deep moat, facing the present Bowl- 
ing-Green. Here is also a small circular stair-case, 
that led from the Guard-Room to the State-Room, so 
narrow, that one centinel alone might defend the pas- 
sage. Next to the Guard-Room, on the same level, is 
the Old Prison, for debtors, within the forest and liber- 
ty of Knaresbrough, which consists of two small rooms, 
the first, is twelve feet by ten, the other, seven 
feet square. 

The second story was entirely taken up by the An* 
ti-Chamber and State-Room, commonly called, the 
King's Chamber, each room appearing to have been 

* The records, from the year 1368, to the year 3708; sinee that time 
they are deposited in the office of the steward of Uie court. 



KNARESBROUGH. 41 

about sixteen feet square : the first had a fire-place oa 
the south side, and was lighted by two narrow slips on 
the opposite side: — The State-Room had a large fire- 
place on the north, opposite which, was a most 
magnificent window, ten feet wide, and fifteen feet 
high. The rich and elegant tracejy which adorned this 
window, was thro"svn down in a thunder-storm, June 
K)th 1 806. On the outside, are four grooves, which pro* 
bably have been formed for the purpose of fixing some 
sort of machine, to secure this elegant window from the 
inclemencies of the seasons, or the violence of besieg- 
ers. Under this window, are some small remains of an 
arched portal, which formerly led to the dungeon. 
The principal entrance into the Anti-Chamber, which 
led into the State-Room, was from the outer court, to 
which the access was guarded and fortified in the strong- 
est manner imaginable; first, through an arched por- 
tal, and a zigzag passage, you come into a vestibule, 
where a guard was usually placed* From hence was 
a stair-case of stone, that led to the Anti-room, defend^ 
cd by two portcullises J some parts of the grooves are 
yet remaining. The third and uppermost story was 
of the same dimensions as the former 3^ above this, was 
the top of the tower, on which were a parapet and bat- 
tlements. The height of this tower i^ fifty- three feet 
and the breadth fifty-four -, two sides of it are broken 
down, and on one corner, still remaining, are the evi- 
dent marks of violence, made by the cannon-shof 
fired against it. 

D3 < 



4'^ HISTORY OF 

<^But, now, no more the crimson tides of wa^r 

*' Rush headlong from these walls, nor dying groan 

"Teircps the ear; yet echo, in her cell, 

" Dreams o'er each long-forgotten clash of fight." 

Underneath, is the Dungeon, into which yoit 
descend by twelve sfeps. This room is twenty-three 
feet in length, and about twenty in breadth ; the walls 
are of hewn stone, similar to those of the rest of the 
castle. Here is an aperture, for the admittance of air, 
Jiear three feet square next the room, and terminating 
gradually on the outside in a small point, arched all 
the way with stone, rendering it impossible for any 
human being to escape that way. The roof is arched 
with stone, and supported by one round pillar, nine 
feet in circumference. The only ray of light the 
prisoners could in all probability enjoy in this gloomy 
cell, was through the iron grate in the door on the 
top ef the steps ; in the enjoyment of which feeble 
glimmering, some of them, (in ancient times), have 
amused themselves with carving rude figures on the 
wall 5 amongst which, are that of a horse-shoe, some re- 
semblance of Gothic-arches, and two figures of men, 
in the dxesses worn about the time of c^ueen Eliza- 
Ijeth. 

On the south-east side of the castle are the remains 
of a gateway, the grooves of the portcullis being yet 
discernable betwixt two semicircular pillars. These 
pillars, and two others on the side next the river, of 



KlfARESBROUGU. 43 

beautiful workmanship, are the work of later times, 
and evidently placed here as buttresses to strengthea 
the ancient wall. 

In a part of these ruins, behind the Court-House, 
are the remains of a secret cell, or hiding-place, con- 
structed in the middle of the wall. This curious 
receptacle is lined with hewn stone, and is three feet 
four inches high, and two feet eight inches wide, and 
appears to have been more than twenty feet in length. 
At the farthest end, is a low stone seat, where two 
persons might sit in a bending posture. There does 
not appear to have been any contrivance for the ad- 
mission of air or light ; and, the only advantage this 
apartment seems to have had above the common dun- 
geon, was its being above ground. Remains of such 
solitary recesses are to be found amongst the ruins of 
most of our ancient mansions and castles j and there 
are instances of their having been used for personal 
safety, as the last retreat in the moment of imminent 
danger, and extreme distress. 

In the year 1786, some foundations were discovered 

on the south-side of the castle, supposed to have been 
the remains of a chapel. The altar, built of large 
stones, well cemented, and covered with stucco, had 
been ornamented with painting-s ; some of the colours 
appearing very f esh; here were also found f.agments 
of painted glass, some human bones, and part of an 



44 HISTORY OF 

iron helmet. In one part of the castle-yard, is the 
entrance of an arched subterraneous passage, leading 
from thence into the moat. This, no doubt, was very 
useful during a siege, when the common entrance was 
strictly watched by surrounding enemies. From eve- 
ry appearance, it may be concluded, that this castle 
had all the advantages of strength and situation, that 
could be desired, before the invention of artillery,* 
and, even after this period, was found to be a place 
not easily reduced : this is evinced by the great num- 
ber of cannon-shot of various sizes that have been, and 
are yet frequently found on different sides of it. Pla- 
ced on an eminence, projecting into the river, and? 
from its towers commanding all the avenues into the 
town ; nor could any one pass over either of the brid- 
ges unseen by the garrison. Such was the castle of 
Knaresbrough, which Leland truly says, "Standeth 
** magnificently and strongly on a rock, having a deep 
** ditch hewn out of the rock, where it was not defend- 
** ed with the river Nidd 3" and where he numbered 
ele\^n or twelve towers. 



* 'Captain Koss, ©f the artillery, emvsing hii»self with viewing these^ 
ruins, in the sumnier of 1781> declared, that supposing the castle at that 
time well fortified, he couid, with the greatest safety,, ertct a tattCJ^ 
TjKitliin 300 yards of the sarae^ 



KNAREriBROUGH. 45 

<'What does not fade? Tlie tower that long had stood, 
" The crush of tliunder, and the warring winds. 
" Shook by tlie slow, but sure destroyer— Time, 
** Now hangs in doubtful ruins o'er its base : 
*♦ And flinty pyramids, and walls of brass 
" Descend : The Babylonian spires are sunk ; 

" Achaia, Rome, and Egypt moulder dowa. 

*' Time shakes the stable tyranny of thrones,*^ 

'* Ancf tottVing empires rush by their own weight. 

" This huge rotundity we tread grows old; 

" And, all those worlds that roll around the sun: 

" The sun himself shall die; and ancient night 

" Again involve the desolate abyss." Armstrong, 

From viewing these mouldering remains of pride 
and dominion, the eye is relieved, and the mind 
cheered, by the romantic beauties of the adjacent 
vale,— -a delicious composition of enclosures, 
wo ODs, and r ocks, at the bottom of which, a fine ri- 
ver takes its bending course, shaded in many places 
with hanging wood. On one side, the houses and trees 
ranged along the edge of the precipice, with part of 
the town, the church, the bridge, and Coghill- 
H A L L : On the other side, Belmont, with its wood and 
enclosures, the more elevated situation of Bilton- 
Hall, with a distant view of Brimham-rocks, com- 
plete this beautiful scene. 

The seal of this honor represents a castle, under 
which, on an escroll, are ^ur letters, E. R ; Q. R^ 



46 HISTORY OP 

Over the castle, on a wreath, is a dexter hand in ar^ 
mour, couped at the wrist, holding a branch of 
oak, the date, l6lU The crest is the same as that 
borne by the ancient family of Rodes, one of whom 
might then be receiver of the crown rents here ; and, 
besides putting his crest on the seal, might also add 
the initials of his name and office — Edward Rodes, 
Quaestor Regis. 

A large body of troops, stationed in this town and 
neighbourhood, were, in the month of August, l64&, 
ordered to join Cromwell, then marching to attack the 
Scots army, under the command of the duke of Ha- 
milton. After this, nothing remarkable seems to have 
taken place here, till the landing of the prince of 
Orange; in the year 1688, when Sir Henry Good- 
rick, Bart., of Ribston-Hall, repaired immediate^ 
ly to Knaresbrough, alighting from his coach, he 
entered the Town-Hall, where several Roman-catho- 
lic gentlemen (then in the commission of the peacej 
were assembled, on some matters of a public nature. 
Sir Henry informing them, that the authority by which 
they sat there was then superseded, drew his sword, 
and proclaimed William the third, king of England, 
&c, 

When we remember the active part this gentleman 
took in the struggles of those times, we shall not be 



KNARESBROUGH. 47 

surprised at this single instance of his bold and enter- 
prising spirit. 

1708. Queen Anne granted to the burgesses of 
this borough, five different fairs, to be held on cer- 
tain days in each year, with a court of Pie Paudre, . 
fq. d. Dusty-Foot Court) a court held in fairs, to re- 
dress disorders committed in them. The burgesses 
were also entitled to the toll of corn and grain sold in 
the market, which they enjoyed in. rotation, till the year 
1748. 

At the breaking out of the rebellion, in the year 
1745, the gentlemen of this county, ever distinguish- 
od for their loyalty and steady attachment to the 
rights and liberties of English-men, entered into an 
association for the public defence; amongst whom, 
William Thornton, esq., of Thornville, distinguish- 
ed himself in so particular a manner, (by raising a 
company of soldiers, and marching at their head, 
against the rebels, into the mountains of Scotland), 
as procured him the thanks, applause, and esteem 
of every well-wisher to the constitution. The inha- 
bitants of Knaresbrough, desirous to testify their 
gratitude for such eminent services, entreated his ac- 
ceptance of a silver table, on which was engraven as 
follows :— 



48 HISTORY OF 

ON 

THK- UFFER SIBE. 

GULIELMO THORNXaN, ARM. 
QUI CUM COHORTE MILITUM 
SUMPTU SUO NON MEDIOCRI 

SUSTENTATA 
PRO REGE ET PATRIA 
IN SCOTIA CONTRA REBELLES 
IMPROBISSIMA HYEME 
BELLI PEtllCULIS 

SESE MAGNAtTIMlTER 

OBTULIT 

A*^. DOM. MDCCXLV. 

EBOja, 

O : M : E 



On the lower Side. 

GULIELMO THORNTON, ARM. 
QUI CUM COHORTE MILITUM 



KNARESBROUGH. 49 

SUMPTU SUO NON MEDIOCRl 

SUSTENTATA 
PRO REGE ET PATRIA 
CONTRA SCOTOS MONTICULOS 
BELLUM INTESTINUM MOLIENTES 
IMPROBISSIMA HYEME 
RELICTA CONJUGE* 
BELLI PERICULIS 
SESE MAGNAMITER 
OBTULIT 
ANNO D'nI MDCCXLV. 
BURGUS KNARESBURGENSIS 
EBOR 
O : M : E 
B D 

The table is two feet in diameter; and ijow in the 
possession of lieutenant colonel Thomas Thornton, 
son of the above gentleman. ' 

1756. The fairs, which had for several years been 
discontinued, on account of a distemper amongst 

• After the defeat at Culloden, Mr, Thornton and his lady went to 
court, where being seen by the king, who had noticed Mrs. Thornton, 
he was thus accosted by the monarch, " Mr. Thornton, I have been told 
•' of the services you have rendered to your country, and your attach* 
" ment to me and my family, and have held myself obliged to you for 
«i both; but, I was never able to estimate the degree of the obligation til? 
"now, that I see the lady whom you left behind you." 

E 



OO HISTORY OF 

horned cattle, were this year, by an order of sessions 
opened again, and, have ever since been held as fol- 
lows : 

The first Wednesday after January 13. 

The first Wednesday after March 12. 

May the sixth, unless the same happen to be on 
a Sunday, and then the day after. 

The first Wednesday after August 12. 

The first Tuesday after October 11. 

The first Wednesday after December 10. 

The Statutes, for hiring servants, on Wednesday 
before November 23.* 

About the year 1700, two men clearing a piece of 
ground in a place called the Castle-Ings, on the south 
side, and near the edge of the Castle-Moat, discovered 
a piece of metal, which proved to be part of an iron 
helmet ; after being carefully dug up, they found it to 
contain a large quantity of silver coin 3 and, in the 
midst, carefully wrapt in wool, were a number of gold 
coins. 



« Fairs and markets, sa,ys Sir John Spelman, were first instituted by 
Alfred the Great j before which time, it was common for the Danes 
and Saxons, after the former had got footing in this country, to steal 
not only cattle, but also, to carry women and children from eachotiiers* 
lands, and sell them as slaves ; and, it was frequently very tedious, if not 
impracticable, to find out the offenders, and bring them to condign ptr- 
nishment, by the sufferers proving Uieir property. 



KNARESBROUGH. 51 

About the year 1756, a large quantity of silver 
coin was found in a field near the high-road, about 
half-way betwixt Knaresbrough and Scotton-moor. 

1758. A human skeleton was discovered by a man 
digging for lime-stone on Thistle-hill, near this town» 
w^hich led to the discovery of the long-concealed 
murder of Daniel Clark, by Eugene Aram, and others ; 
the circumstances of which, being too long for in- 
sertion here, may be seen in a separate pamphlet. 

In the year 1762, as a workman was digging a cellar, 
on the north-side of the market-place, he discovered 
a small earthen vessel, filled with gold coins, chiefly 
of Henry Vffl., and Edward VI. 

Some few Roman coins have been found here, 
particularly of the emperors Claudius and Constan- 
tine. As they were found in the vicinity of the castle, 
it confirms the opinion, that here was a fortress, in the 
time of the Romans. Copper and brass coins, or to- 
kens, of different sizes and impressions, are frequently 
^ound in the gardens about the town, several of which 
appear to have been struck at Nuremburg, and pro- 
bably brought into England in queen Mary's reign. 
Tradesmen's tokens are also very frequently found here, 
whose different inscriptions and devices, shew them to 
have been the particular coinage of individuals in this 
borough : In the centre of one of them is a crown, 
E 2 



52 HISTORY OT 

and round it these letters, Aaron Lowcockj onthe 
reverse, in the centre, is».A: L., and round it, Of 
Knaresbrough. It appears, that, from and during 
the reign of queen Elizabeth, to that of king Charles 
the second, the tradesmen in general, that is, all that 
pleased, coined small money, or tokens, for the bene- 
fit and convenience of trade. This being struck for 
necessary change, the figure and device were various^ 
and the materials of lead, tin, copper, or brass. Every 
community, tradesman, or tradeswoman, that issued 
this useful kind of specie, were obliged to take it a- 
gain when brought to them j and therefore, in large 
towns, where many sorts of them were current, a tradefe^ 
man kept a sorting-box, into the partitions of which 
he put the money of the respective tradesmen, and 
at proper times, when he had a large quantity of one 
person's money, he sent it to him, and got it changed 
into silver, and in this manner they proceeded till the 
year I672, when king Charles 11. having struck a suf- , 
ficient quantity of halfpence and farthings for the ex- 
igencies of commerce, the nummorum famuli were 
superseded, and these practices of the tradesmen were 
:ao longer useful or necessary. 

Several coins or medals of brass have been found 
lately, something larger than a shilling \ on one side 
are the figures of David and Jonathan, the former 
resting on his harp, the latter on his bow ; round the 
margin is a latin inscription, being a recital of a pas- 



KNARESBROUGM. 53 

sage in the first of Samuel, chap, xx., verse 42. On 
the reverse, is the representation of Joab killing Amasa^ 
the inscription, from the second of Samuel, chap, xx., 
verse 9. No date on either side. 

• A CONSIDERABLE manufacture of linen ha^ been 
carried on here for many ages, and is at present in a 
flourishing condition. The length of each piece is 
twenty yards, breadth, thirty-five inches ; the prices 
from thirteen shillings and six-pence, to thirty shil- 
lings : upwards of one thousand of these pieces are 
manufactured in this town and neighbourhood each 
week. Sheetings are also manufactured here, some 
of which are twenty-four yards in length, and one 
yard and half a quarter in breadth ; others, twenty-six 
or twenty-eight yards in length, and one yard and 
quarter in breadth, all varying in price according to 
the comparative difference in the fineness of each *- 

THE RIVER NIDD,t 

Which runs close by this town, takes its rise at the 
upper end of Nidd's-Dale, or Netherdale, about 
thirty miles north-west of this place ; and, after run- 
ning a considerable way from its fountain, again en- 
ters the earth by a wide and rocky cavern, then taking 

• The linen manufacture was introduced into England by the Fie* 
trnngs, under the protection of Henry III., A. D. 1253. 

t The word I^idd, among the Celtae, signified under, below, or 
cotcredl, 

£ 3 



54 HISTORY OF 

a subterraneous course of some miles, again emer- 
ges to the light by two issues, whose waters are soon 
after united; and, passing by Ramsgill, Pate- 
ley-Bridge, Hampsthwaite, Killinghall, 
Ripley, Knaresbrough,Ribston,Walshford, 
CowTHORP, Hunsingnore, and Cattal, unites 
with the Ouse, near Nun-Monkton, after a course 
of upwards of fifty miles through a deep rocky chan* 
nel, often hid in the depth and obscurity of woods. 
Salmon are frequently found in different parts of this 
river 5 Pike are also found in most parts of it, parti- 
cularly near Rib ST on, where one of those fish wa» 
caught, that weighed near twenty pounds. The Perch 
aie from half a pound to three pounds each. Trout are 
found in most parts of the river, but chiefly in the 
vale of Scot TON, from half a pound, to three 
pounds each. Here are also Smelt, Chub, Dace, 
Eels, Barbel, Ombre, Gudgeon, &c. 

On the 4th of February, 1 800, a meeting ^vas held at 
the Sessions-house, for the purpose of adopting a plan 
for a navigable canal, from the river Ure to Knares- 
brough 5 when a committee was appointed, who ordered 
a suiTcy, and the levels to be taken in two lines, the one 
communicating with the river Ouse, and the other 
with the Ure, by which, it appeared perfectly clear, 
that the most eligible line of navigation would be from 
the river Ure, below the shoals at Ellinthorpe, and, 
passing between Aldbrough and Boroughbridge, leav- 



KNARESBROUGH, 55 

in^ the villages of Minskip and Staveley, on the left ; 
and proceeding thence by Staveley-mill, and Farnham- 
CaiTS, to Cold-Keld, between Farnhamand Sc riven. 
The expence for completing the said canal, was esti* 
mated at twenty-two thousand nine hundred and eight 
pounds. 

1764. An act of parliament was obtained for the 
better supplying this to^vvn with river- water; which, 
on account of its elevated situation, rendered the 
then common method of conveying it in leathern bags, 
on horseback, difficult and expensive. 

Annexed to the ^vater-works, a paper-mill was 
erected, where that business was carried on with suc« 
cess, till the year 1791> when the cotton-mill was erect* 
ed, by Messrs. Thornton, Lomas, and Co., and began 
its operations on the 22d of September that year. In 
the year 1793» this mill w^ sold, and became the pro- 
perty of Messrs. Curtis, Driffield, Oliver, Dearlove, 
and Co., by whom the business is now carried on. The 
spinning of cotton was soon followed by an attempt 
to introduce the weaving of that article, and looms 
Vfere set up for that purpose, by Messrs. Lister and 
Cockshaw: Several other persons followed their 
example; and, at this time (1808 , there are not less 
than two hundred looms employed, which, on an 
average, produce four hundred pieces each weeJr* 



56 HISTORY OF 

In July/ 1794, the Knaresbrough volunteers were 
raised; and, on the 4th of June, 1795, the ladies and 
gentlemen of this borough and its vicinity, met at the 
tewn-hall, and partook cf an elegant breakfast, after 
ivhich, lady Slingsby, in a concise speech, well adapt- 
ed to the occasion, presented the colours to captain 
Robinson. The volunteers, tired three vollies, in honor 
©f the day. 

In the town, are several very good inns, a spacious 
market-place, and neat market-cross, built by the in- 
habitants, in the year 1709. The market is on Wed-* 
nesday, and plentifully supplied with every kind of 
provisions. The quantity of corn sold here every 
week, is supposed to exceed that of any other market 
in the county. The Sessions-hov^se was rebuilt about 
the year 1768; under which, are two prisons, one for 
town debtors, a single room, twelve feet square, the 
other for felons, one room, eight feet by five. 

THE HIGH-STREET, 

So called from its situation, and being the princi- 
pal street in this borough. 

WINDSOR-LANE; 

'[Wendoe'r ; to turn round.^ The situation and form 
of this lane are very expressive of its name. Here 
stands the Dissenter's chapel, first founded by kdj 



KNARESBROUGH. 57 

Hewley, relict of sir John Hewley, of Bell-hall, near 
York. The present edifice, being upon the ancient 
site, was erected chiefly by means of a subscription, 
begun by Mrs. Thornton, the lady ot John Thorn- 
ton, esq. of Clapham, in Surrey, in the year 1778. 

GRACIOUS-STREET ; 

{Grachthuys Straet'] The street where the houses 
s-tand, in the Gracht ox Ditch, In the year 16II, 
and probably some ages before that time, here were 
several dwellings within that part of the town-ditch 
which ran along one side of this street: supposing 
those dwellings to be erected the first in the town- 
ditch, after it ceased to be used as a means of defence, 
the name is accounted for. Here stands the Quaker's 
jneeting-house, first erected in the year I701. 

BRIGGATE ; 

I Bridge- Gate,} A street leading to the low- 
bridge. 

CHEAPSIDE : 

[Cheap; a market^ This street being situate on 
one side of the market-place, accounts for its name. 

KIRKGATE; 

A Street leading to the churchy and, adjoining 
to thi^. street, is a garden, called "Parnassus Mount>" 



58 HISTORY CT 

universally admired for its beautiful and romanffc 
scenery. Here company are regaled with tea and cof- 
fee, in a neat room built for the purpose, and which, 
on account of its lofty situation, is called " The 

Eagle's Nest/' 

JOCKEY-LANE ; 

So called from the circumstance of a horse-dealer's 
stables being here. It had anciently two other appel- 
lations, \iz. Barefoot-lane^ SiiidTe7i-faith-la?ie ; which 
names I apprehend were given to it in consec[uence of 
the Jew's synagogue, which formerly stood hereabouts, 
the gates of which opened into this lane. About the 
year 1768, Mr. Christopher Walton, owner of the 
place, discovered, in digging the foundations of a 
buildmg here, a wall of hewn stone, four feet thick* 
resting on a foundation of brick, of the same thick- 
ness j the lime adhered so strongly to the bricks, that 
they could not be separated without breaking to pie* 
€es. These foundations range close to the right hand 
side of the path, leading tlirough the synagogue-yard 
to the market-place. 

It is probable, that this building was destroyed in 
the first year of the reign of Richard I. when no less 
than fifteen hundred of these miserable people were 
massacred at York, besides great numbers in other 
places, who fell by the hands of an infatuated, and 



i 

KNARESBROUCII. 59 

biiUivi populace. Notwithstanding these severe out- 
rages, they soon became again very numerous in dif- 
ferent parts of the kingdom, but were finally banished 
this country in the year 1290, to the number of sixteen 
thousand five hundred and eleven. 

A. D. 1738. A Jewish phylactery was found in the 
castle of Knaresbrough, with an inscription in he- 
brew, which was preserved in the manuscripts of 
Roger Gale, esq., and is a recital of part of the sixth 
chapter of Deuteronomy, viz. from the beginning gf 
the fourth verse, to the end of the ninth. 

FINCLE-STREET; 

\yincle, Danish ; an angle or corner.'] This street 
evidently answei-s the description, as it runs close by 
the line of the old rampart, and terminates near the 
north-west angle. At present, it is called Swine-mar- 
ket, numbers of those animals being sold here every 
week. 

In the field on that side the High-bridge, next the 
town, was formerly a garden; in which, about the year 
1754, was found, by Peter Blakeston, the gardener, 
when digging in that part of the garden near the 
bridge, some few silver and copper coins, two or 
three spurs of an uncommon size and form, some 
cannon-balls, and musket-shot, together with the 
lieads of several small axes, probably battle-axes. The 



6(b HISTORY OF 

whole circumstance, taken together, seems to point 
out this as a place where some smart skirmish has hap- 
pened hetwixt two parties ; one defending the pass at 
the bridge, and the other attempting to force it 5 the 
former being assisted by the fire of the artillery, from 
the castle. 

This bridge was repaired and enlarged in the year 
1773 j and the Low-bridge, in 1779; the distance be- 
fwixtthem, is as follows: From the High-bridge, to 
Frogmire-dike 400 yards -, from thence, to Byrnand- 
hall cross 586 ; from thence, to the Low-bridge 554^ 
in all, 1540 yards, or 7 furlongs. 

SHERIFFTURN; 

OR, 

Is held in th^ castle of Knaresbrough, twice a year> 
%vithin a month after Easter, and at Michaelmas, 
where the constables attend to be sworn into office • 
eleven for the forest, viz. Bilton with Harro- 
gate, KiLLINGHALL, CliNT, HaMPSTHWAITE 

Fellescliffe, BiRSTwiTH, Darley, Thrus- 
CROss, TiMBLE, Clifton, and Pannal. — ^Nine 
for the liberty: Scriven, Scotton, Brearton, 
Stainley, Burton - Leonard, Farnham, 

^TAVELEY, ArKENDALE, ^ GrE AT - OUSEBURN. 



KNARESBROUGH. 61 

Each of these attend with four men, out of which 
the juries are empannelled. 

The family of Knaresburgh were of great anti- 
quity here ; they bore for their arms, argent, a lion 
rampant/ gules, ducally crowned, or, within a bor- 
dure, sable, charged with eight bezants. 

Roger de Knaresburgh is mentioned in a grant, 
made to the abbey of Fountains. 

Thomas Knaresburgh married Agnes, daughter 
6f Gilbert Slingsby, 1364. 

Robert de Knaresburgh, one of the monks 
of Bolton, in the year 1553. 

John de Knaresburgh, vicar of Knaresburgh^ 
©bit, 1561. 

Peter Knaresburgh, obit, 1574. 

Francis Knaresburgh, obit, 1588. 

The last person of the name, remembered here, w^as 
Helen Knaresburgh, married to Mr. Samuel 
Green, master of the grammar-school, at Knares- 
brough; she died in the year 1733. 

After the conclusion of the war, in 1783, prince 
William Henry visited the city of Havannah, in his 
way to England : Don Solana, the Spanish admiral^ 
entertained the prince and his suit, with ail possible 
politeness* During the ball given that evening, 
lieutenant William Ackroyd, one of the english 
officers, expressing his admiration of the beauty and 
F 



62 HISTORY OF 

elegance of a lady then dancing, was answered b v a 
gentleman in the Spanish uniform : " I perfectly agree 
** with you sir." The officer stepping up to the gen* 
tleman, told him, he spoke english so well, that he 
presumed he must belong to a battalion of the irish 
brigade, then in the city—" Sir," replied the Spanish 
officer, "I am a merchant, and colonel of militia; my 
** ancestors were english, and came originally from a 
•* town in Yorkshire, called Knaresburgh; from 
•* which town, the family derive their name. My ad- 
•*dressis, Don Miguel de Knaresburgh." Mr. 
Ackroyd, being a native of the same town, could not 
but admire the singularity of the circumstance, con- 
cerning which, he certainly would have received fur- 
ther information, had not prince Henry given orders 
that night, for his suit to be ready, to attend his going 
on board early next morning. 

The family of Byrnand were for many ages seat- 
ed at Knaresbrough -, they bore for their arms, azure, 
on a bend argent, three escallops of the first. 

William Byrnand, of Knaresbrough, esq., mar- 
ried Grace, daughter of sir William Ingilby, of Rip- 
ley, knight ; had issue, Robert. 

Robert Byrnand, of Knaresbrough, esq., mar- 
ried Anne, daughter of Thomas Slingsby, of Scriven, 
esq., had issue, William and Robert. 

William Byrnand, of Knaresbrough, esq., mar* 



KNARESBBOUGKf. 63 

ried ' ; had issue, Grace, his daugh- 

ter and sole heir; married to sir Ralph Babthorpe, of 
Babthorpe, in the east-riding of Yorkshire, knight. 

Robert Byrnand, of Knaresbrough, esq., (bro- 
ther of William) married Anne, daughter of Richard 
Norton, of Norton-Conyers, in the north-riding of 
Yorkshire, esq.. 

William Byrnand, esq., was recorder of York, 
1573. 

The family mansion was situated at the end of the 
High-street, leading towards York. Near it, formerly 
stood an ancient Cross; which, being placed on the 
outside of the Rampart, and opposite to the en- 
trance into the borough, seems to have been similar in 
situation, and probably may have been used for the 
same purpose, as that mentioned by Mr. Pennant, in 
his history of London, which stood without the city, 
opposite to Chester inn; and where, according to the 
simplicity of the age, in the year 1294, and at other 
times, the magistrates sat to administer justice. 
Byrnand-hall hath been lately rebuilt, by Mr. Willi- 
am Manby, who took down the remains of the old 
cross, and left a cruciform stone in the pavement, 
which will mark the place to future times. . 

The family of Rhodes, anciently resident at Knares- 
brough, bore for their arms, argent, on a cross en- 
grailed between four lions rampant, gules, as many 
F 2 



64 



HISTORY OF 



bezants. Cregt— a leopard sejant, or'; spotted sabl^ 
collared and ringed, argent. 




BYRNAND-HALL CROSS. 



KNARESBROUGH. 65 

The family of Roundell formerly resided at Knares- 
brough and Scriven, where they are still possessed of a 
considerable estate. Their arms are, or, a fesse, gules, 
between three olive branches proper, crest, a sword io 
pale argent, hilt and pommel, or. 

John Roundell, of Scriven, was living in the . 
year 1425, 3d. of Henry VI., from whom, by a direct 
line of worthy ancestors, is descended the rev. Wil- 
liam Roundell, of Gledstone-house, A. M.: late 
fellow of Magdalen-college, Oxford, who married, 
January 9, 1775, Mary, daughter of Henry Richard- 
son, A. M., rector of Thornton, by whom he had six 
sons. Richard, born Dec. 14, 1776 — William, Jan. 
27, 1780* — Danson, April 3, 1784-- Henry, Sept. 5, 
1785 — Christopher, July 6, 1788— Savile, Sept. 2S, 
1789 — and two daughters, Eleanor, May 14, 1783— 
Mary, April 14, 1787. 

The family of Warner, formerly of Knaresbrough, 
bore for their arms, or, a bend engrailed between six 
roses gules, barbed proper. 

A NUMBER of small inclosures, in and near this bo- 
rough, formerly produced great quantities of liquorice, 
but this hath been long discontinued j the last crop re- 
membered here, was planted in a garden under the 
cliff, next the river, then belonging to Mr. Simon 
Warner, who died in the year l683. 

* Obit, S. P., February lUth, 1§01. 

F 3 



66 HISTORY OP 

Liquorice seems to have given way to the cuhiva- 
tion of the cherry-tree, which was planted in many of 
the tofts and crofts, in and near the borough, and produ- 
ced fruit in abundance, so as to supply all the neigh- 
bouring markets, till about the year 1752. The last 
cherry-orchard was converted into a kitchen- garden.* 

Mr. Camden observes, that this part of the country 
produced a soft, yellow marl, which proved an excellent 
Ihanure for land. The marl is still to be found, but is 
now very seldom used as manure. 



KNARESBROUGH, 

Dedicated to St. John, the baptist, was given^ 
(most probably by Henry L,) with all its lands, tythes^ 
and chapels, to the priory of Nostel, about the year 
1114. It appears afterwards, to have become the pro- 
perty of archbishop Walter Grey ; who, in the year 
1230, united the same to the prebend of Bickhill, 
in the cathedral of York. This hnpropriation was 
made in lieu of an estate in York, granted by the dean 
and chapter to the said archbishop. It is within the 
diocese of Chester, and deanery of Boroughbridge j 

• Called Baxter*s gardenj situate on the soutb^ide of the castle* 



KNARESBROUGH. 0^ 

rated in the king's books at 9I. 9s. 4id., yearly tenths, 
I8s. ll|d.— Lord Rosslyn is patron, as lessee of the 
prebend*, and, its present annual value 3001., or 
upwards. 

On the south-buttress of the west- front, are these 
Words, carved on a single stone: 

Christ f 'is ho died upon the rood^ 
Grant us grace our end be good. 

On the south- wall, over the porch, is a represen- 
tation of t'ie cross, similar to that worn on the breasts 
of the jaonks of the Trinitarian order ; which appear. 
ances, seem to favor the opinion, that the church hath 
been repaired and enlarged out of the ruins of the 
priory : and that the stone, with the above lines, ori- 
ginally belonged to the chapel of the Holy- cross, 
there. 

Against the wall, on the outside, near the choir 
door, are the following inscriptions :— 

Man/, eldest daughter cf "Peter RoundeUy of Scri" 
ven, married to Simon Warner, of Knaresbrough^ 
ttoenty-five years; to 'whom she bare four childreut 
three sons, and one daughter, "-^Depart ed, the Wth of 
June, 1674. 

Vita caduca vale salveto vita perennis. 
Corpus terra tegit, spihtus aiu peUt* 



68 HISTORY OF 

Simon Warner, Gent. 

September 7, 1663, aged ^6» 

Warner 

Anagr. 

Urna Ver, 

Tam sacri cineris duplici de pignore custom. 
Usque receos vere hasc floreat umee^novo. 

The steeple is founded on four large pillars, each 
composed of clusters of round columns, supporting 
four very beautiful arches, much superior to those ia 
the body of the church, which seem to have been a 
work of later date. Here is a musical peal of eight 
bells 5 the tenor weighs twenty hundredweight, where- 
on is inscribed; *' Procul este profani. — ^The rev. 
•* Thomas Collins, vicar; John Inmai^, and 
James Young, churchwardens." These bells were 
hung in the year 1774, at which time, several pieces 
of half-burnt wood were taken out of the wall of the 
steeple, supposed to have been the ends of timber, that 
had been destroyed by fire. The only account we 
have of any such accident here, was anno, 1318, whenr 
the Scots carried fire and sword through all these 
northern parts, and this town, with the church, was 
involved in one general conflagration. 

On the north-wall,' is a monument, to the memory 
of John Watson, brother of George Watson, of Bil-* 
ton-park, esq., who died in 1753, aged 31. 



KNARESBROUGH. 69 

Against a pillar, at the east-end of the north-aile, 
Is a marble monument, to the memory of James 
Whitefoord, esq., of Dunduff, in Ayrshire, North 
Britain, who died July 29th, 1785. 

Against a pillar, at the east-end of the south- , 
aile, is a marble monument, to the memory of Patrick 
Robinson, of Edinburgh, jewellery obit, September 
S, 1790, act. 60. 

In a small window, at the west-end of the church, 
on stained , glass, are the following arms: Azure, a 
fesse, or, between three doves argent. 

On a window, in the north-aile, — a bend, with 
three escallops, for Byrnand. 

Here was formerly a representation of St. Robert, 
holding a plough, drawn by a team of deer. Some 
fragments of this curious piece of stained glass re« 
mained in a window of the north-aile, till within these 
few years, 

A<JAiNST the south-wall, is a neat marble monu- 
ment, to the memory of Gregory Rhodes, esq., who 
died in 1766. 

The organ, procured by a general subscription, was 
built by Mr. John Donaldson, of Newcastle- upon- 



70 HISTORY OF 

Tyne, and first used in divine service, on Sunday, 
April 20, 1788. 

The screen that separates the choir from the body of 
the church, is pierced with the figures of the lighted 
torch, the rose, and trefoil ; each having a symbolical 
allusion to some particular part of an ancient worship. 

On the north-side of the choir, is a chapel, belong- 
ing to the Slingsby family, wherein are several monu- 
ments, with inscriptions in latin, of which the 
following are translations. 

On an altar-tomb, are placed fine and whole-length 
figures of sir Francis Slingsby and his lady, the 
enly sister of Thomas and Henry, earls of 
Northumberland. The knight is in complete an- 
mour, except his helmet, which is placed under his 
head. A small frill encircles the upper part of his 
»eck, his beard flowing gracefully in ringlets over his 
breast. On his left side, is his sword, and on his right, 
at some distance, lies his dagger ; his hands are eleva- 
ted, and at his feet, is a lion statant. 

The lady is habited in a long robe, with folding- 
plaits, down to the feet; the sleeves come close to the 
wrists ; round w hich, and her neck, is a small fi ill ; 
her head rests on a pillow; her hair combed back, close 
under the cap, which is a plain one, without bordei^ 



KNARESBROUGH* 71 

©r lace. On the right side, upon the skirt of hei- robe, 
are the arms of Percy, and Brabant, two quartering* 
appearing complete, the other two partly hid in the 
folds of the drapery; one foot rests against a crescent, 
as the other formerly did against a lion statant ; both 
crests of the Percies. 

On a fillet around the upper part of the tomb :— 

Consecrated to the Trinity in XJniti/, in tlie midyear 
«/ his ag€y and the 4^d of queen Elizabetns reign, — 
Death destroy Sf and renews life. 

On the north and south sides j 

Under this tomb are interred, Francis aiid Mary 
Slingsby ; Francis, leaving the university, served un^ 
der king Henry VIII,, as captain of horse, at the siege 
4>f Boulogne ; and afterwards, at the battle of Mussel- 
lurgh, was a general of the horse ;■ in the reign of queen 
Mary, he commanded a troop of horse ; and, in the fol- 
lowing reign of queen Elizabeth, he 'was sent into the 
north, sole commissioner for settling disputes with the 
Scots; he died 4th of August, I6OO, aged 7S, 

Mary, not less distinguished by her virtues, than by 
her birth, was the only sister of Tho?nas and Henry, 
t^rls of Northumberland ; she was so sincerely devoted 
to the service of her Maker , as, to be justly called a 



7f HISTORY OP 

heavenly star of piety. In the 66th year of her age^ 
she yielded her body to mortality^ and resigned her sout 
to immortality . 

This pair had 12 children, 9 soiis and 3 daughters ; 
the daughters died young; of the sons, 6 arrived to 
manhood, followed the court, and xoere employed in va- 
rious negociations, in foreign parts, in France, Spain, 
I^ortugal, Italy n and as far as India ; the seventh 
taking holy orders, and, being bachelor in divinity* 
hecame rector of Rathburne, in 'Northumberland, 

Henry Slingsby, their heir, erected this monument^ 
in 1601, to record the nobility and the mortality of 
his relations. 

Under a whole length marble figure of sir Willi- 
am Slingsby, who is represented standing in a niche, 
in an easy attitude : His head reclines a little on one 
hand j the elbow resting on the guard of his sword ; 
the other hand hangs down, and holds a shield, with 
the family arms ; on his head, is a high-crowned hat; 
his hair and beard finely curled ; he has on a buff jacket^ 
boots, and spurs ; the body has a gentle and most ele- 
gant reclination, and claims a place amongst the best 
sculptures, in our churches. 

Sir William Slingsby, Jcnight, of the reno-wned fa- 
mily of the Slingsby' Sf in Yorkshire, was the son of 



KKAaESBRO,UGH. 7S 

sir Francis Slitigs&j/^ and Marj/, the only sister of 
Thomas and Henry Percy, earls of 'Northumberland^ 
a lady of the greatest ^orfh and piety : — He xoas born 
at Knaresbrough, January ^Qth, 1562. As a soldier^ 
a courtier, and a 7nagistrafe, he distinguished himself 
under four princes. 

In queen Elizabeth*s reign, he xvas co7n7?iissary of 
the army, in the fortunate expedition to Cadiz, in 1596. 
Under Icing James, he ser'ced at court, as honorary carver 
to the queen : In 1603, ajid during the same reig7i^ 
*when the king^ent to Scotland, he was constituted lord 
lieutena7it of the county of Middlesex : He also filled 
the same post, mth applause, in the succeeding reign 
of king Charles, 

August, 1624, *^I depart time f not tired of life, nor 
yet afraid of death. 

Under a whole-length figure of white marble, 
standing in a niche, and wrapt up in wet drapery, is 
the following : 

Here lies sir Henry Slingsby, knight, son and heir 
of Francis and Mary Slingsby, xvho died Ylth of De- 
cember, 1634, aged 74. All is va7iity. 

On a large slab of black marble f brought fro7n the 
priory J, six feet two inches long, by four feet six 
inches broad^ and six inches thick. 

This stone of St, Robert's, xvas brought here; and, 
binder it, teas laidH£7iry, son of He?ln/ Slingsby, who, 
G 



74 HIStORY OF " 

heing expelled the house of co?7imons^ and all his goods ^ 
confiscated^ by an ordinance of 'parliament ; nothing else 
remained for him to doy hut to endeavour to save his 
soul. He suffered on the Sth day of June ^ 1658, in 
the 57 th year of his age ; on account of his fidelity to 
his king, and attachment to the laiDS of his country ; 
being beheaded, by order of the tyrant, CrointveU, he 
tvas translated to a better place* 

Sir Thomas Slingshy, baronet, no degenerate heir 
of his father's virtues, placed this, in the year 1693. 

t)N a monument of white marble, fixed against the 
wall, is inscribed: 

** Hey^e lies the body of Dorothy Slingshy, late *wife 
of sir Thomas Slingshy, of Scriven, hart,, daughter 
€7id co-heir of George Craddock, of Caresw ell-castle, 
in Staffordshire, esq,; died, Q4th of January, 1673, by 
'ivhom he had S sons, Henry, Thomas, and George ; 
C72d 3 daughters, Dorothy, Elizabeth, and Barbara,'^ 

On the south-side of the choir, is a chapel, formerly 
belonging to the Plumptons, of Plumpton , though no 
traces now remain here of that ancient family, except 
their arms, stained on glass, in the window. In the 

• This gentleman wrote a diary of occurrences and observations, from 
the year 1638 to 1648; it abounds -with curious matter; ' and records to 
posterity, that the writer was a person of the strictest piety, probity, and 

fortitude. 



KNARESBROUGH. 75* 

south-wall, are two apertures, adorned with gothic or- 
naments, but neither effigy nor inscription remain in 
either. A pedestal, projecting from the wall, and over 
it, the remains of a very neat canopy of tabernacle- 
work, mark the place where once an image stood. 

The seats on either side of the choir, and a pulpit 
facing the east-window, all appear to have been the 
work of ancient times, and seem as if divine service 
was celebrated here, in former ages, as it is at this day 
in the body of the church. 

The church appears not to have been much larger, 
before the reformation, than the present choir ; — there 
were then no pews, or different apartments allowed, but 
the whole was common, and the assembly promiscuous. 
The present pews in the body of the church, were- 
erected in the year, 1730. 

On the south-side of the communion-table, in the wall 
of the church, is the piscina-* and, near that, a seat, 
where the officiating priests sat, at intervals, during the 
solemnity of high mass. 

• The Piscina were placed, not only near the high altar, but also ia . 
jhe ailes, and chantry-chapels, where there were side-altars, for private 
masses ; and, in case any fly, or other insect, should fall into the chalice 
before consecration, it was directed to be thrown, together with the 
vrine, into this receptacle; but, should this happen afterwards, it was di- 
rected to be burnt, iuper PUcinam. 

Vide QcnU Mas-, Aug., 1776' 
G 2 



76 HISTORY or 

On the north-side, is a black marble slab, with the 
arms of Stockdales, formerly of Bilton, well executed ; 
under which, are inscriptions, to the memor\' of the 
following persons j 

Thomas Stockdale, obit- - - - - i653 

William Stockdale - - 1693 

Christopher Stockdale - - - - 1713 
William Stockdale 1739 

Within the rails^ 

Elizabeth Stockdale, obit- - - 1694 
Catherine Walters 1703 

In the list of the names and valuations of the bene- 
fices, within this diocese, in Stevens' Monasticon, vol. 
1, page bSj the vicarage of Knaresbrough is valued at 
forty marks per annum , and, the prebend, at forty- four 
pounds per annum. The chantr\' of Mary ^Magdalen, 
in this church, founded by William Stable, of the 
yearly value of 4l. ISs. 3d.. The chantry of St. John, 
the baptist, in the said parish, of the yearly value of 
5l. 2s. 4d.. The chantry of the virgin Mary, 2l. l6s. 

Length of the church, from east to west, is - 123 

Length of the north and south-ailes - - 7«5 

Length of the cross-aile • .*..------- 7.> 



KNARESBROUGII. 7T 

Height of the roof 35 

Height of the steeple - - - - 75 

PARISH. REGISTER, 

Begins with the year 1561, in which year, there 
were 41 baptisms, 12 marriages, and 21 burials. Two 
hundred years after>. viz,, 1761, there were 119 bap- 
tisms, 30 marriages, and 65 burials ; and, in the year 
1807, 156 baptisms, 63 marriages, and 129 burials* 

In the year 1 645, soon after the surrender of Knares- 
brough, to the forces of the parliament, I find the 
following note : 

** Matthew Booth was admitted into the vicarage 
*' of Knaresbrough, and elected minister, by the re- 
*' signation of Mr. Roger Ateye, and the free choice 
" of the people." 

The singular mode of solemnizing marriages, that 
took place during Cromwell's usurpation, was strict- 
ly observed here, for near four years, during which 
time, sixty-six couple were joined together, before the 
civil magistrate. . The gentlemen who were applied to 
in this case, for the most part, appear to have been 
Thomas Stockdale, esq., of Bilton-park, or sir Tho« 

♦ If the usual method of estimating the population of a town, by 
multiplying the number of annual births by 27, be admitted, -we shaU. . 
£ad Knacesbrough contains upwards of four thousand inhabitants. 

G 3 



78 HISTORY OF 

mas Mauleverer, bart., of Aller ton -park, or the may- 
or of Ripon. The banns were published on three 
separate days before the marriage, sometimes at the 
market-cross, and sometimes in the church. The fol- 
lomng is a copy of one of the certificates : 

** March 30, 1651. Marmaduke Inman, and Pvu- 
*' dence towcock, both of the parish of Knaresbrough, 
** were this day married together, at Ripon j having first 
** been published, three several market-days, in the 
** market-place, at Knaresbrough, according to an act 
** of parliament, and no exceptions made. In the 
*^ presence of Thomas Davie, and Anthony Simpsom'* 

VICARS OF KNARESBROUGH. 

Richard de Clifton 1S8Q 

Thomas Halthorpe 1391 

John Burton - - . - - 139^ 

John Brown ► .-..--,.....- 1424 

John Knaresbrough 1561 

Percival Broadbelt 1616 

William Broadbelt -•--•- 1O16 

Abraham Rhodes -n 1636 

Roger Ateye ,.,.. = --.., 1642 

Matthew Booth --*. I645 

John Levet ^--^ .,-,.^. lO^g 

Leonard Ash - - ^ .-..----•••• . 1692^ 
Joshua Glover 1716 



KNARESBROUGH. 79 

Thomas Collins 1735 

Andrew Cheap 1788 

Andrew Cheap, nephew of the above * - - 1804 

THE FREE-SCHOOL, 

Situated on the south-east side of the church- 
yard, was endowed by the rpv. Robert Chaloner, a 
native of Goldesburgh, rector of Amersham, in 
Buckinghamshire, in the year l6l6. The present 
building was erected by subscription, anno 1741. 

Ovei* the door, is this inscription. 

Hoc Gymnasium Impenais 
CoUatitiis extructutn tuit. 
Anno Domini, M,DCC,XLI. 

Mr. Anthony Acham, ofHoiborn, London, lefl 
to the poor of Knaresbrough, in the year l638, the 
sum of six pounds per annum, to be distributed ia. 
bread, the last Sunday in every second month. 

John, lord Craven, left to the poor of Knaresbrough^ 
in the year 1647, the sum of two hundred pounds, 
which was vested in the purchase of lands, at Scotton, 
and now lets for 3,41. a year, or upwards. 

Mr. William Carter, left to the poor of the 
parish of Knaresbrough, in the year 1699, one close^ 
lying in Scriven-fields, called **Carraires,'* containing 
two acres, and one rood, or thereabouts.. 



80 HISTORY OF 

Mr. Andrew Holden, in the year 1707> leftUk 
the poor of Knaresbrough,. twenty- pounds. 

Charity -^ School, 

THE HIGH-STREET. 

Over the entrance, is the following inscription : 

This School was endowed by the late Thomas 
jRichardson, esq,, in the year 1765, with this house j 
and, by his will, in 1775, with a sum of money, with 
whtch, an estate of £45 per annum, situate in Folly- 
foot, was purchased by the trustees appointed in, and: 
by the deed of endowment. The land-tax of the es- 
tate, which amounted to c£l. 6s. per annum; was 
redeemed by subscription of several of the inhabitants 
of Knaresbrough. 

Benefactions io the school, 

£. s. d* 

1770 Danson RouNDELL, esq. - - 42 : : 

14th April, 1795 Mr. John Simpson, 

High-street, ----- .--10 :0:0 
6th May, 1803 Mrs. Ann Shatwell, 21 : : O 
1st July, 1803 Mr. Christ^' Walton, 20 : : 
13th July, 1803 Mr. James Collins, 100 : : 
SOth May, 1804 Mr. John Walton, - 100 : : 
and by will, - - 200 : : 



KNARESBROUGU. 81 

5th June, 1804, Mr. M. Broadbelt, 10 : 10 : 
Mrs. Ann Broadbelt, 25 : o : o 

SUNDx\Y-SCHOOLS 

Were begun here on the 30th of January, 1785, 
when near five hundred children were entered on that 
truly laudable establishment. 

MEMBERS of PARLIAMENT 



IThis town was summoned to send members to par- 
liament, in the first year of queen Mary, 1553, on 
the first of October 5 from which time, it has returned 
two representatives. The right of election being in 
the resident inhabitants, holders of burgage tenures, 
of which, the number originally was eighty-eight. 

1553. Reginald Beisley — Ralph Scrope. 

1554. Edw. Napper — John Long. 

1555. Humphrey Fisher, knt.— Thomas Chaloner, knt. 
1557. Henry Darcy — Thomas Ashill. 

1562. Henry Gates, knt. — William Strickland 5 in 
whose places (chose already for Scarbro,') 
Christopher Tamworth, and Robert Bowes^, 
were elected. 

1^71. George Bowes, knt>— James Cade, 



89 HISTORY OF 

1572. Francis Slingsby — ^Richard Banks. 

1585. Edw. Pooley— Francis Slingsby. 

1586. Francis Palmer^ — William Davidson, 
1588. Thomas Preston — Francis Harrie, 
159^. Samuel Fox — Simon Willis. 

1597. Hugh Beeston— William Slingsby. 

1601. Henry Slingsby — Wm. Slingsby. 

I6l4. Henry Slingsby . 

1620. Richard Hutton — Henry Slingsby. 

1626. Henry Benson — Richard Hutton. 

1640. Henry Slingsby, bart.* — Henry Benson. 

1641. A new writ for election, instead of Mr. Henry 

Benson, rendered incapable ever to sit, for 
granting protections to divers persons, who 
were not his menial servants. — Mr. Dear- 
love, his son-in-law, unduly elected. 

1642. William Constable, bart. — Thomas Stockdale. 
1658. Slingsby Bethel.— Robert Walters. 

1660. William Stockdale,— Hugh Bethel. 

1661. Sir John Crossland — William Thompson. 
1678. Sir Thomas Slingsby— William Stockdale. 
1685. Sir Henry Slingsb) —William Stockdale. 
1688. Double return; petitions of Thomas Fawlcep. 

esq., and lord Latimer, referred : Report rtj- 
solved, that Mr. Fawkes is duly elected. 



* In sir Henry Slingsby's diary, is the following note, respecting the 
election, in I64O; •'There is an evil custom at such elections, to bestow 
" wiae 00 all the town, which cost me sixteen pounds, at least .*^ 



KNARESBROUGH. 83 

loSQ, Double return ; petitions of Thomas Fawkes, 
esq., and sir Henry Slingsby, referred : Re- 
port made, right of election agreed to be in 
the burgage-holders. Resolved, that Mr. 
Fawkes is duly elected, return amended. 
1690. Thomas Fawkes— Christopher Stockdale, 
8695. Robert Byerley — Christopher Stockdalc. 

1713. Henr3^ Slingsby — Francis Fawkes. 

1714. Earl of Monthrath— Robert Hitch.* 

1715. Petition of several burgesses referred j leave 

given to withdraw it. 

1722. Richard Arundel — Sir Henry Slingsby. 

1758. The hon. Robert Boyle — Sir Henry Slingsby. 

1761. Lord John Cavendish — Sir Henry Slingsby. 

1765. Sir Anthony Abdy — Lord John Cavendish, 

1 76S. Sir Anthony Abdy— R. B. Walsingham. 

1775. Lord G. H. Cavendish— R. B. Walsingham. 

1780. Lord Duncannon— R. B. Walsingham. 

1781. James Hare — in the room of R. B. Walsing- 

ham, lost on board the Thunderer, man- 
of-war. 

1784. Lord Duncannon— James Hare. 

1796. Lord John Townshend — James Hare. 

1804. William Cavendish, in the room of James 
Hare, deceased. 

1806. Lord John Townshend— Lord Duncannon. 

1807. Lord John Townshend — Lord Ossulston. 

♦ The practice ef purchasing burgage houses, began about this time. 



84 HISTORY OF 

popular CttStoms, 

OBSERVED HERE. 

On easter-sunday, the men take off the wom€n'5 
shoes, which are only to be redeemed by a present* 
On the day following, the women retaliate, and treat 
the men in like manner, by taking off their hats. 
This is supposed to be the remains of a festival, called 
Hoketide, instituted in memory of the sudden deatb 
of king Hardiknute, and the downfall of the Danes, 
in 1042. 

ST. CRISPIN. 

Crispin and Crispianus, two brothers, born at 
Rome, travelled to Soissons, in France, where they 
exercised the trade of shoemakers ; but the governor, 
discovering them to be christians, caused them to be 
beheaded, about the year 303 ; from which time, the 
craft made choice of them for their tutelar saints. 
The feast is observed here regularly, on the 25th of 
October. 

ST. CATHERINE. 

A festival observed on the 55th of November, by 
the people employed in the different branches of the 
linen manufactory. Every trade having formerly a 
patron saint, Catherine was chose by this community, 
on account of her suffering martyrdom, on a partA. 



KNARESBROUGH, S'j 

cularsortof wheel, which, it is supposed, resembled 
one of those used in spinning flax ^, and called, to this 
day, a Catherine-wheel. She is said to have suffered by 
order of the tyrant Maxentius, about the year 306. 

THE SWORD-DANCE 

Is still practiced here, during the Christmas holy- 
days. It is a very ancient custom, and is performed 
much in the same manner, as described by Olaus 
Magnus, in his history of the northern nations: 
** First, with their swords sheathed, and erect in 
** their hands, they dance in a triple round : Then, 
'* with their drawn swords, held erect as before: Af- 
** terwards, extending them from hand to hand, 
** they lay hold of each other's hilt, and point, while 
** they are wheeling more moderately round, and 
** changing their order, throw themselves into a fi- 
** gure of a hexagon, which they call a rose — but, 
** presently raising, and drawing back their swords, they 
** undo that figure, to form (with them) a four-square 
** rose, that may rebound over the head of each. At 
** last, they dance rapidly backwards j and, vehemently 
*' rattling the sides of their swords together, conclude 
** the sport," which seems to have been the invention 
of a warlike people, and probably derived from ouv 
saxon ancestors. 



ir 



86 HISTORY or 

THE DROPPING -WELL; 

OR, 

Is situated in the long-walk,* close by the river 
Nidd. This spring rises at the foot of a lime-stone 
rock, about 40 yards from the bank of the riv^er; and, 
after running about 20 yards, it divides, and spreads 
itself over the top of the rock ; from whence, it trickles 
down very fast, from 30 or 40 places, into a channel, 
hollowed for the purpose, every drop, creating a mu- 
sical kind of tinkling, owing probably, to the conca- 
vity of the rock 5 which, bending in a circular pro- 
jection, from the bottom to the top, its brow over-hangs 
about five yards. This rock, which is about 10 yards 
high, 16 long, and from 10 to I6 broad, about the 
3'ear 1704, started from the common bank, and left 
a chasm between them, from a yard and a-half, to 3 
yards wide 5 over which chasm, the water passes by 
an aqueduct, formed for the purpose: The whole 
rock is cloathed with verdure, amongst which, in the 
summer season, are seen ash, alder, elm, iv\^ 

GERANIUMS, WOOD-MERCURY, HART*S-TONGUE, 

LADiEs'-MANTLE, COWSLIPS, &c.. Dr. Short ob- 
serves, that this water abounds with fine particles of 

• This walk was laid out, and planted on each side with trees, by sir 
Henry Slingsby, bart,, about the year 173?. 



KNARESBROUGH. 87 

a nitrous earth, ^vhich it deposits, only when in a lan- 
guid motion, and leaves its incrustations on the leaves, 
moss, &c., that it meets with, in trinkling so slowly 
through the cavities of the rock. The spring, is sup* 
posed to send forth 20 gallons in a minute. Here are 
also seen pieces of moss, bird's-nests, with their eggs, 
and a variety of other articles, some of them very cu** 
rious, which have been incrusted or petrified by the wa- 
ter. Tradition tells us, that near this rock, the famous 
Yorkshire sybil. Mother Ship ton, was bom, about 
the year 1488 : She married Tobias Shipton, of Ship- 
ton, near York , and, from this match, derived the name 
of Mother Shiploji- Many tales of her skill in futu- 
rity, are still related in this part of th^ country; the 
whole of which, including a series of succeeding events, 
are stated to have been delivered to the abbot of 
Beverley, and to have been since preserved in 
^MS., in lord P — s's family. 

From the Dropping- well, the walk extends along 
the river-side to the High-Bridge j and, as the river 
me^iders very much, you have, every ten or twenty 
yards, a new point of view 5 which, though compo. 
sed of the same objects, is surprisingly diversified and 
variegated. From some parts of this walk are seen, 
on the opposite hill, the venerable ruins of the cas- 
tle, the HERMITAGE, &c., with a charming inter- 
mixture of ROCKS and trees, over which, part of 
the TOWER of Knaresbrough church makes its 
H 2 



88 HISTORY or 

appearance : Upon the whole, it is a place where na- 
ture hath elegantly disposed every ingredient she could 
bestow, to form a cheerful and ])leasing scene. Many 
of the trees in this walk, have been marked with the 
sylvan pen of rural lovers, which is a veiy ancient 
custom, as appears by the following passage in Pro- 
pertius, written near two thousand years ago :*— 

" Ah quoties teneras resonant mea verba sub umbras 

*' Scribitur & vestris. Gynthia corticibus ," Eleg. xviii 

Returning from the Dropping-well, repassing the 
bridge, and turning on the right, you arrive at 

ST. ROBERT'S CHAPEL. 

On one side of the entrance, under a shade of 
spreading and pendent ivy, is the figure of a Knight 
Templar,* cut in the rock, in the act of drawing his 
sword, to defend the place, from the violence of rude 
intrudei^. The chapel is elegantly hollowed out of 
the solid rock, its roof and altar, beautifully adorned 
with gothic ornaments; behind the altar, is a large 
niche, where formerly stood an image ; and, on each, 
side, is a place for the holy- water j here are also the fi- 
gures of three heads, designed, (as is supposed), for 

* " Carv'd on a rock, and near the door, 
" An armed wariior stands; 
'•Who seems to guard the sacred place, 
" From rude and hostile handSo'* 



KNARESBROUGII. 89 

an emblematical allusion to the order of the monks of 
the once neighbouring priory j by some of \vhom they 
were probably cut ; the order was styled, Sanctce Trini- 
tatis. At some distance, is another head, said to 
represent that of John the baptist, to whom this 
chapel is supposed to have been dedicated. In the 
floor, is a cavity, where formerly some ancient relic was 
deposited. This chapel is ten feet six inches long, 
nine feet wide, and seven feet six inches high. 

In the year 1799, was found in the garden, near 
this chapel, a gold ring, neatly ornamented on the 
outside, with the figures of roses, and branches of palm • 
on the inside, was a cross, similar to that worn former- 
ly on the breast, by the monks of the neighbouring 
priory, with the following motto: DEO VOUS 
AlVIOUR. 

In 1803, another ring was found in the same garden, 
inscribed; ME. MEN. TO. MO, RL 

Near this place are several dwellings, scooped out 
of the rock, that are at present, and have been inhabit- 
ed by families from time immemorial ; some consist- 
ing of several apartments, accommodated with chim- 
nies, windows, and other conveniences, fashioned out 
of the rock, with great ingenuity. These sort of habita* 
lions, are the most ancient of any in this island, or 
perhaps ia the world. The most extraordinary of 
H3 



90 HISTORY OF 

these, is a large cavern, called "The Rock-House," 
supposed to have been the retreat of some of those 
banditti, who, informer times, infested the neighbour- 
ing forest. Under a large rock, covered with ivy, are a 
few steps, that lead down into this singular abode ; 
which consisted of three apartments, one of which was 
walled up ^ome years ago. The present occupiers, are 
an industrious weaver, and his family, who have 
formed a small piece of ground, near their subterrane' 
ous dv/elling, into a very neat garden. 

St. Robert, the reputed founder of this chapel-, 
was the son of Tooke Flower, mayor of York, in the 
reign of Richard the first ; being remarkable, from his 
youth, for learning and piety ; and, after having spent 
some years in the monasteries of Whitby and Foun- 
tains, was made abbot of New-minster, in Northum- 
berland, which dignity, he soon after relinquished, 
and retired to a solitary hermitage amongst the rocks 
at Knaresbrough^ after living here some time, a lady 
of the Percy family, gave him the chapel of St. Hilda, 
situated at a place, now called St. Hile's Nook,* with 
some land adjoining : here, he led a life of the great- 
est austerity, and the fame of his sanctity became 
universal. William Estotville, then lord of Knares- 
brough, from being his persecutor, became his bene- 
factor, and gave him all the land, from his cell, to 

♦ This place is still called Chapel-field ; part of the foundatioa of the 
chapel yet remiiios, near Roferlington, i< i.* ' 



KNARESBROUGII, QV 

Grimbald-bridge : King John also gave him forty 
acres of land, in Swinesco. 

Numerous and extraordinary, are the miracles said 
to have been performed by him: such as taming 
wild-beasts, causing deer to become so tractable, as to 
yield their necks to the yoke, and assist in the services 
of agriculture ; and some others, too extraordinary to 
mention. Notwithstanding which, it is certain, that 
while he resided at Fountains-abbey, he was indefati- 
gable in labour, diligent in reading and meditation, 
devout in prayer, wise in council, and eloquent ia 
speech. 

After living to a great age, a remarkable example 
ofpiety and benevolence, he died, beloved and lament- 
ed by all who knew him. The monks of Fountains, 
desiring to have his remains interred in their monas- 
tery, would have taken his body away by force, had 
they not been prevented, by a company of armed men, 
sent for that purpose, fiom the castle. He was interred 
in his own chapel, of the holy-cross, at the place where 
the priory was afterwards founded. Robert was suc- 
ceeded by his associate Ivo, an hermit, in the chapel 
of the holy-cross, who had all Robert's possessions con- 
firmed to him, by royal grant, bearing date, at Pont*e- 
fract, in the twelfth year of the reign of Henry III., 
anno 1227 ■ " Fide Dugdales MonasticoTlj vol, 2d, 
page 863. 



99 HISTORY OF 

Matthew Paris observes, that in the year l^Og, 
the fame of Robert, the hermit of Knaresbrough, was 
universal, and, that a medicinal oil Bowed from his 
tomb.* 

Above the chapel, is the Hermitage, a cell fonn- 
ed of petrifactions, moss, and other substances* 
Within, is the figure of a hermit, sitting in a contem- 
plative attitude j with the book, beads, cross, and 
skull, so well imitated, as to surprise every visitor, 
and does great credit to the ingenious artist, Wm* 
Fryer. 

Above the hermitage, near the top of the rock, is 
the Fort, whose embattled wall, pointed cannon, and 
waving flag, is certainly a very striking representation 
^f chateau de Espagne. 

Thk house was formed out of the rock, with great 
labour, by a poor weaver and his son, who were sixteen 
years, in completing it. They not only formed the 
interior of the dwelling, but cut the cliff into terraces^ 
rising above each other, and extending on both sides 
the house, along the edge of the precipice, forming 
very agreeable walks, planted on each side with a great 
Tariety of shrubs, and flowers. Here arc also arbours 



9 In the Karleian coUectioBy K<». 3775^ there is his lift, wrote k»J 
RebertSWdeiei. 



KNARESBllOUaH. 93 

with seats, placed in various situations, a giccn-house, 
and an excellent tea-room, for the reception of com- 
pany. The poor man is every day endeavouring to 
give some additional decoration to this romantic place, 
which, in gratitude to his principal benefactress, the. 
truly noble, and good Duchess of Buccleugh, he 
has named Fort-Montague. He also acknowled- 
ges, the liberal encouragement he has experienced from 
€ir Thomas Slingsby, bart., the proprietor of the 
place, and the adjoining lands. 

The view, from this lofty situation, consists of all 
the vai'iety of pleasing objects, that a well cultivated 
country can furnish; many of the beauties of the vale 
below, are also seen from hence, with peculiar advan- 
tage. The HOUSES, and gardens on one side of the 
valley, rising in gradation above each other 3 the hil- 
ly-grounds on the other side, wooded to the water's 
edge, the river, winding out of sight; the ruins of 
the castle; the bridge, and patriculariy, the lit- 
tle island, near the dropping-well, covered with 
verdure, render this view the most romantic and plea- 
sing, that imagination can conceive. 

From St. Robert's chapel, to the priory, is about 
half-a-mile ; the river on one side, and the blcaching- 
grounds, on the other ; at the end of which, a most de- 
lightful avenue presents itself; on one side, is a row 
®f lofty trees, through which, the river appears like 



&4 HISTORY OF 

the glossy surface of a iDirrcr^ and, on the other, a 
range of rocks, partly concealed by wood, and natural 
festoons of pendent ivy; the view is terminated by a 
small but elegant house, so charmingly situated, as to 
form a complete picture of rural elegance. This 
house stands within the precincts of 

THE PRIORY, 

Founded here by Richard Plantagenet, second son 
of king John, earl of Cornwall, and king of the Ro* 
mans, about the year 1257, for a society of friars, of 
the order of the Holy Trinity, for the redemption of 
captives ; they wore white robes, with a red and blue 
cross upon their breasts y their revenues were divided 
into three parts, viz. one, for their own support j a se- 
cond, to relieve the poor 3 and a third part, to redeem 
such christian captives as were, or should be taken by 
the infidels. 

On thio house, was conferred all the possessions of 
St Robert, and his successor Ivo, as will appear by the 
following charter, of the 5th of Edward II., which con- 
firms the donation made by the earl of Cornwall, to 
the brethern of the Holy Trinit}', at Knaresbrough. 

" The king, &c. We have perused the charter of our 
•* late father, Edward the first, king of England, made 
** to the brethem of Rnaresbrougb, in these words-— 



KNARESBROUGH. 95 

^* Edward the king, &c. We have also perused the 
" charter of our late sovereign, Richard, king of Eng' 
** land, and the earl of Cornwall, our uncle, which he 
** made to the brethem of the Qrder of the Holy Trinity, 
'* for the redemption of captives at Knaresbrough, in 
** these words : To all to whom these presents shall - 
" come ; Richard, earl of Cornwall, greeting. Know 
** ye, that we have given and granted, and by this, our 
<* present charter, have confirmed, to the brethern of 
** the order of the Holy Trinity, at Knaresbrough, for 
*' the happiness of us, and the souls of our predeces- 
•* sors and successors, the chapel of St. Robert, at 
** Knaresbrough, with the advowson of the church at 
** Hampsthwaite, and all the appurtenances, which 
*' our late sovereign king John, our father, granted 
** to the aforesaid Robert, in his life-time 5 and also, 
*' that field, which is called, " Swinesco,"* with a cer- 
•* tain wood adjoining, which is called, **Halykeld- 
^* SYKES,"t on the north-side of the river Nidd, as 
•* far as the Hanging-bridge ; and, on the other side 
•* of the said river, towards the north-west, as far as 
** the road which turns from Knaresbrough, towards 
"Heywra, all that land, which is called **Bel- 
*' MOND,"J between the forest and the little park 



• Swine-pasture j now called Long-flat. 

t Holy-spring syke— St. Robert's well is here. 

t Belmond Fine hill. The beautiful gate of the temple, is stylCt^ 

hj Fullei*, in his church-history of Palestme, la Belle Portu 



96 HISTORY OF 

» 

'*of Knaresbrough 5* and also, all that land, witk 
** the appurtenances, which is called Spittle-crofts,t 
** towards the forest, on the left-hand. Moreover, 
•* we give and grant, to our brethren, aforesaid, and 
** their successors, pasturage for twenty cows, with 
** their calves, for three years, in Hampsthwaite ; 
*' and also, for three hundred sheep, and forty pigs, 
** in Okeden, without paying any acknowledgment; 
*' and, if they would have more, let them pay for 
** them as others, for our pastures, woods, and 
** parks : To have and to hold, the said chapel, with 
'* the advowson of the said church, and all others, 
** the aforesaid lands, with their appurtenances, from 
** us and our heirs, to our brethren aforesaid, and 
" their successors, well, and in peace, freely and 
** quietly, exempted from all secular duty, tax, cus. 
** tom, or demand, belonging to us, or our heirs, as 
** pure and perpetual alms ; saving to us, and our 
^* heirs, our wild beasts, that may have free li- 
** berty to range about in the aforesaid land, as they 
** used to have before ; and also, that our people of 
** Knaresbrough shall partake of all the aforesaid 
** lands, after our brethren aforesaid, shall have taken 
** possession, with their cattle, except Swinesco, and 

* Bilton-park, 

t Spital, a contraction of hospital. Hermitage and hospital were 
anciently terms of the same import: they were usually placed at the 
conjunction of several roads, for the relief of poor distressed traveliefsj 
and, here it is probable, one of thgse buildings formerly stood. 



KNARESBROUGH. 97 

** the culture of the old park, which shall remain quiet 
** and free from all communication, for our brethren 
** aforesaid ; and we, and our heirs, will warrant the 
** said chapel* and lands, with the advowson of the 
** said church and pasture, to our brethren aforesaid* 
** as free, pure, and perpetual alms, against all per- 
** sons whatsoever, as long as our brethren aforesaid* 
** shall live in the said place ; and, that this our gift, 
*' grant, and confirmation of our charter, may remain 
*' firm and valid, we have caused these presents to 
** be sealed, these being witnesses, 

"William de Ross," &c.. 

William leZouch, archbishop of York, pub- 
lished an indulgence, of forty days relaxation, &c., to 
those who liberally contributed to the church, and 
house of St. Robert. 

Henry Bo wet t, archbishop of York, also grant- 
ed ample indulgence to all who would help to support 
the said house. 

The patronage of the churches of Hampsthwaite, 
Pannal, Fewstone, and Whixley, belonged to this 
house. 

Anno 1296, Edward L granted his protection 



' Chapel of the Holy-Cross. 
I 



98 HISTORY or 

and licence to John Sperry. Robert de BonviIIe, 
Robert de Calverton, and William de Ebor, proctors 
of this house, to collect alms for five years, for the 
redemption of captives, in the holy-land. 

This house was endowed at the dissolution, accord- 
ing to Dugdale, with 30l. 10s. lid. per annum. 
Thomas Kent, the last prior, surrendered it in De- 
cember, 1539, 282 years after its foundation 5 when 
there remained the following pensions: 

Thomas Kent, prior ------ 

JohnTurnbull 

Robert Gibson --------- 

Thomas Green -- 

THOMAS York 

Richard Branston 4 

The site, with all its dependencies, w^as granted 
the 7th of Edward VL, to Francis, earl of Shrewsbu- 
ry j* soon after which, it became the property of the 
Slingsby's, in which family it hath ever since remained ; 
sir Thomas Slingsby, bart., being the present owner* 
The chapel, priory, and other buildings, are now en- 

» In this grant, the following places near the priory, are particularly 
mentioned, viz. All the site of the said priory, with one mill, three 
granaries, one barn, one dove-coat. Long-orchard, Bath-orchard, Sheep- 
close, Esper, Conyard, Lathe^hill, great and little Quarrel-field, Stravl)er« 
ry-field, Long -flat, and Well-flat. 



£. 


s. 


d' 


13 : 


6 : 


8 


5 : 


: 





4 : 


13 : 


4 


4 : 


: 





4 : 


: 





4 ; 


: 






I 



KNARESBROUGH. 99 

tirely demolished ; ^vhose ruins, overgrown with grass, 
lie scattered about the place, in many a mouldering 
heap; a single grave-stone, at the foot of an aged ash- 
tree, marks the place of sepulture; on which, some 
years since, this inscription was discernible : 

J : O : Y HIC : JACET. I BEMER. B R, O. V. 

The situation is in a retired and beautiful vale of 
WOOD, WATER, and ROCKS, and justifies the choice 
of the founder ; such a sequestered site must have 
been favorable to the solemn melancholy of a monas* 
tic life. In the opposite wood, called *'Birkham- 
wood,'' during the summer evenings, the nightingale 

" Sings darkling ; and, in shadiest covert hid, 

** Tunes her nocturnal note." 

Within the precincts of this priory, are still 
found many rare plants, and shrubs, not to be found 
in any other part of this neighbourhood, which gives 
reason to suppose, they were brought here and planted 
by the monks, during the flourishing state of that 
fraternity. The late Dr. Hutchinson, had, in his mu- 
seum, several elegant pieces of sculpture, also found 
here. 



IQ 



100 



HISTORY OF 



The Arms of the earl of Cornwall, and used 
% the Priory of Knaresbrough. 




The remains of the fish-ponds here, shew them to 
have been of a singular construction, and so situated, 
that the water might be drawn off at pleasure ; one of 
these ponds measures fifty-eight feet long, and thirty. 
five broad 5 the other, is the same breadth, but twenty- 
six feet longer : near these, is a large drain, capable of 
receiving the water of both, being six feet deeper than 
either of the ponds, 206 feet long, and twenty broad. 
They are called the Asper-ponds j a name, probably 
retained ever since the monks resided here, and, ap- 



KNARESBROUGHt 101 

plicable to their present appearance, being surrounded 
by irregular ground, overgrown with thorns and briars. 

On the SOth of May, 1805, as two labourers were 
employed in taking down an old wall, within the pre- 
cincts of this place, they discovered a large quantity 
of silver coin, amounting to near l6 hundred pieces* 
mostly of the coinage of Edward I., whose he^d Is 
represented on each, crowned with an open crown of 
S fleurs-de-lis, with 2 rays, or lesser flowers, not raised : 
and circumscribed E.D.W.R. ANG. DNS. HYB- 
i. €. Edward, king of England, and lord of Ireland. 
On the reverse, is a cross, with 3 pellets in each quar- 
ter: circumscribed, CIVITAS CANTOR, Le. coined 
at the city of Canterbury. There were others coined 
at York, Durham, and Newcastle. 

Leaving the priory, and following down the course 
t>f the river, you arrive at Grimbald-bridge, near 
which is 

ST. ROBERT'S CAVE, 

An hermitage; the interior part, formed out of the 
rock, yet remains, but, so filled with rubbish, as to 
render the entrance rather difficult j the roof is covered 
with rude carvings of crosses,, initials of names, &c.. 
At the farthest pait of the cave, is a small recess, 
which seems to have served for a pantry^ the placed 
where the shelves have been fixed, are yet evident^ 
13 



102 HISTORY OF 

Above the entrance, on the front of the rock, are the 
remains of an upper appartment, the ascent to which, 
was by a small flight of steps, cut in the rock, part of 
which, are yet discernible, on that side of the rock, 
next the bridge. The front of this dreary mansion, 
which extended some yards farther towards the river, is 
entirely demolished. 

This cave, was also remarkable for a circumstance 
that led to the discovery of the long-concealed mur» 
der of Daniel Clark ; in consequence of which, Eu- 
gene Aram, the criminal, was brought to justice, after 
making a most ingenious defence, worthy of a better 
cause* 

On the opposite bank of the river, stands a high 
rock, called "Grimbald-Cragg;" from the top 
of which, is a fine prospect of the subjacent vale, 
the RIVER, BiRKHAM-wooD, and the lofty summit 
of Almias-cliff. 

On one side of the rock, is a cavern, which, by the 
rude remains of a chimney, and window, seems to 
have been once the residence of some human being, 
probably, another hermit, of the name of Grim bald, 
to whose memory this rock, (by bearing his name,) is 
a lasting memorial. Grimbald, is a name that fre- 
quently occurs, in the early part of the church history 
of Britain. St, Grimbald, whose memory is celebrat- 



KNARESBROUGH. 105 

eel in the old english calendar, on the 10th of July, 
vras living in the year 882, 

On the east-side of the town, is 

HAY-PARK,* 

Containing about 1200 acres jf which were grant- 
edj by the crown, to an ancestor of the late loixl Bing- 
ley; and afterwards, came into the possession of sir 
John Hewley, knt., some time member of parliament, 
for the city of York. In ld41, the keeperVlodge, 
\vas the only house in the park : after that period, it 
was gradually divided into farms, cleared, and culti- 
vated. Sir John Hewley, died in the year 1697; and 
his lady, did, by indenture, dated 12th and 13th of 
January, 1704, convey this estate to seven trustees, 
who were to apply the annual rents thereof, to certain 
pious uses. 

John Ross, of Warwick, asserts, the first park in 
England to have been made by Henry L, at Wood- 
stock, in the year 1 1 19 j but, Spelman proves, from 
doomsday-book, and other authorities, there were 



• May ; a separate enclosure, within » forest oi' pai k, fenced with » 
rail, or hedge, or both. Blount. 

t It appears bj a perambulation, made in the year l6l2, to have been 
paled round. 



104 HISTORY OF 

parks in the time of the Saxons, who called thtm 
deer- folds. KenneU 

John Metcalf, born at Knarcsbrough, in the 
year 1717, lost his sight when only four years old- 
Being instructed to play on the violin, he af- 
terwards, attended as a musician at the Queens- 
head, High-Harrogate, for many years ; and, was the 
first person who set up a wheel-carriage, for the con- 
veyance of company, to and from the places of public 
resort, in that neighbourhood. In the year 1745, he 
engaged to serve as musician, in colonel Thornton's 
volunteers, and was taken prisoner at the battle of 
Talkirk. Being soon released, he returned to Knarcs- 
brough, and commenced common-carrier, betwixt 
that town and York, and often served as a guide in 
intricate roads, over the forest, during the night, or 
when the paths were covered with snow; nor, was any 
person more eager in the chase, which he would fol« 
low, either on foot, or on horseback, with the greatest 
avidity. Strange as this may appear to those who can 
eee, the employment he has followed for more than 
forty years past, is still more extraordinary, and one 
of the last, to which we could suppose a blind man 
would ever turn his attention — that of projecting and 
contracting for the making of high-roads, building 
bridges, bouses, &c. ! With no other assistance, than 
a long staif in his band, he would ascend the precipice, 
explore the valley, and investigate the extent of 



KNARESEROUGH. 



105 



each, its form, and situation. The plans which lie 
designs, and the estimates which he makes, are done 
by a method peculiar to himself j and, which he can- 
not well convey the meaning of to others. This ex- 
traordinary man is now (1808) living, and in the 93d. 
y«ar of his age. 




106 FOREST OF 



STAGE IL 

Forest of Knaresbrotigh. — Harrogate. — Har- 
loic-HilL — PannaL — Beckicith-Shaw.'-'^-^ 
Havwray-ParJi.—Fewstone. — Hampsthicaite, 
-^Clint. — KiUmghalL 



"N the arrival of the Eomans, in this island, they 
found the woods and mountains abounding Avith ani- 
joials, savage and domestic j but, upon the enclosing 
and cultivating the most fruitful parts, the wild-beasts 
fled into the wild, woody, and desolate tracts of land, 
where they found shelter, and fed undisturbed j where- 
by, all those parts became replenished with all sorts 
of game, especially the wild-boar, and the red and 
fallow-deer. These several extents of ground, wer6 
afterwards called forests. William the conqueror, not 
only seized upon all these forests ; but, pretended an 
absolute right over them, and instituted new and ar^ 
bitrary laws concerning them, unknown before in 
this kingdom : he confined all hunting or fowling, in 
any of these forests to himself, or, such as he should per- 
mit or appoint. He punished, with the loss of eyes, 
any that were convicted of killing the wild-boar, the 



KNARESBROUfiH. 107 

stag, or the roebuck. The british forests, also, con- 
tained the wild-bull, the wolf, and the bear. 

In the roiirns of William Rufus and Henry I., it 
was less criminal to destroy a man, than a beast oi 
chase. 

Pete?, of Blois, who was preceptor to king Henry 
II., tells us, that when that prince was not reading, or 
at council, he had always in his hand a sword or hunt- 
ing-spear, or a bow and arrows ; the spear was used 
against the wild-boars, which were then in our forests ; 
and, adding greatly to the danger, added also, to the 
honor of the recreation. 

The prelates, also, indulged themselves much in the 
pleasures of the chase; the see of Norwich, being at 
one time, possessed of 13 parks; not regarding the 
advice of the good king Edgar: "Docemus etiam, ut 
sarcedos, non fit venator, neque accipitrarius, neque^ 
potator, sed incumbat suis libris sicut ordinem ipsius 
decet." 

The forest of Knaresbrough extends, from east to 
west, upwards of 20 miles ; and, in some places, is 8 
miles in breadth. By the general survey, completed 
in the year 1086, we find there were then only 4 
townships in this forest, i, e. Birstwith, Fewstone, Beck- 
with, and Rosset Two hundred and eighty-two years 



108 HARROGATE. 

afterwards, namely, in the year 1368, there appears to 
have been 3 principal towns, and 16 hamlets, many 
of v/hich, had originated from waste lands, after the 
conquest : 

1. THRUSCROSSj with its seven hamlets. 
Hill, Bramley, Padside, Thornthwaite, 
Menwith, Holme, andDARLEv. 

2. CLINT; with its five hamlets, Birstwith, 
Fellescliffe, Fearnhill, Hampsthwaite, 
and Rovi^DEN. 

3. KILLINGHALL ; with its four hamlets, Beck* 
WITH, RossETT, BiLTON, and Harrogate. 

These have since been divided into eleven constab- 

leries: BiLTON-with-HARROGATE, Killinghall» 

Clint, Hampsthw^aite, Fellescliffe, Birst- 

WITH, MENWlTH-%vith-DARLEY, ThRUSCROSS, 

TiMBLE, Clifton, and Pannal. 

HARROGATE. 

This hamlet hath apparently originated from a few 
cottages, erected near a part of the road, or gate, 
leading from Knar esbrough to Heyvvra-park, and from 
that circumstance, called Heywragate*. 

• Vide a grant of lands to St. Robert. 



HARROGATE. 109 

To this place, during the summer months, the 
nobility and gentry resort, from all parts of Great- 
Britain, and Ireland, to drink the waters, for which 
Harrogate is so deservedly celebrated 5 nor can any 
part of Britain boast a more healthy situation, or a 
purer air. 

These medicinal waters are of two sorts, the cha^ 
lybeate, and the sulphur; of the former, there are 
two springs at High-Harrogate ; the most ancient of 
which, is situated opposite the Granby-inn, and called, 

THE OLD-SPA W, 

Discovered "by captain William Slingsby, in the 
year 1571, who made several trials of it, and, pre- 
ferring it to the Saviniere, in Germany, ordered it to be 
enclosed and taken care of: after which, it was much 
resorted to. Dr. Bright wrote the first treatise on its 
virtues and uses 5 Dr. Dean, in I626; Dr. Stanhope, 
in 1631; Dr. French, in 1651 , Dr. Neale, in 1656; 
Dr. Simpson, in 1668. 

Dr. George Neale, who attended this place 
about the time of the above date, observes, they were 
in danger of losing the spring, by digging too deep 
(when they made the terrace) on the west and north- 
-west sides. 

The terrace was sixty yards square, and enclosed 
K 



110 HARROGATE. 

the well in the middle of the area. Upon the top, was 
a firm and dry walk, affording a view of a large extent 
of country. Here, the company amused themselves 
during the intervals of drinking the water; and, to 
prevent any one from claiming the land enclosed by 
these walks, the following inscription was cut on a 
stone, on the west-side of the well ; near which it 
still lies, but, little of the terrace now remains : 

ALL THIS 

GROUND 

WITHIN THESE WALKES, 

BELONGES TO THE FORIST OF 

KNARESBOROVGH: 1656. 

JOHN STEVENSON. 

The dome that now encloses this spring, wasbuilt^ 
in the ye^r 1786, at the expence of Alexander 
Lord Loughborough, about which time, his lord- 
ship ordered the plantation to be laid out on his estate 
here, consisting of oak, ash, fir, sycamore, beech 
hornbeam, american-chesnut, mountain-ash, poplar, 
&c., which now afford a very agreeable shade, to a walk, 
eight feet wide, and two miles long : It is certainly a 
great improvement to Harrogate, which, Dr. Smollet 
(about 30 years ago,) described,* as a " wild common, 
** bare and bleak, without tree or shrub, or the least 

• Vide Humphry Clinker> 



HARROGATE. Ill 

*' signs of cultivation." This estate, consisting of 156 
acres, was lately purchased by J. Jaques, M. D.. 

About half-a-mile west of the Old-spaw, is 
THE TEWIT-WELL * 

This is also a chalybeate water, and differs very 
little from the former. Dr. Monro, speaking of these 
springs, says, the water of the Old-spaw, strikes a 
light red purple, when six drops of tincture of galls 
are mixed with a glass-full of it. As it sprung from 
the earth, it was twelve grains, in a pint, lighter than 
common water. Evaporated, a gallon yielded at one 
time a scruple, and at another, only eight grains, of 
which, above one half was earth. 

The water of the Tewit-well, when evaporated, a 
gallon yielded, at one time, thirteen grains ^ atanother, 
nineteen grains of sediment, of which, three fifths 
was a calcareous earth, the other two fifths, set to 
crystalize, projected crystals of a calcarious glauber- 
salt: Both these waters mix smooth with milk, but 
curdle soap. 

THE SULPHUR-WELLS, 

Situated at Low-Harrogate, each enclosed in a 
tuilding of stone. This water was not known, till 

* The Tcwit, or Lap'wing, is a constant visiter here> 
K 2 



119 HARROGATE. 

many years after the discovery of the steel- waters, at 
High-Harrogate 5 and, when known, was for a long 
time supposed either too offensive or too dangerous 
to be taken internally ; and, therefore, at first, only 
used as a wash, in diseases of the skin; but, time 
and experience have proved its virtues; and, before 
the year 1700, it was used both externally and inter- 
nally, by all ranks of people, with amazing success, 
in scorbutic and other diseases. Dr. Monro, in treat- 
ing of these sulphur- waters, observes, that, in small 
quantities, they are good alteratives, and, when 
drank in large quantities, are strongly purgative : they 
have been much used, and found extremely service- 
able in cutaneous disorders, and scrofulous cases; 
and, amongst the best remedies for destroying and eva- 
cuating worms, and their nidus, and extremely use- 
ful, where the digestion has been bad, and the bowels 
and intestines full of viscid slimy matter, and assists 
in removing many chronic obstructions. 

In the year 1783, a spring was discovered in the 
garden of the Crescent-inn, at Low-Harrogate, which, 
being of a middle nature, between the sulphur and 
chalybeate, and containing the ingredients of both, is 
peculiarly suited to diseases of the chronic kind. 

Dr. Thomas Short wrote an account of these 
springs, in his history of mineral waters, published in 

1735. 



flAEROGATK. 113 

Dr. William Alexander wrote plain and easy 
directions for the use of these waters, about the year 
1773; the third edition of which, was published Iq 
1787. 

Dr. Joshua Walker, physician to the Leeds in- 
firmary, published an essay on these waters, and those 
of Thorp- Arch, in J 784. 

Dr. Thomas Garnett published a treatise oti 
these waters, in the year 1793, which hath passed 
through sev-eral editions ; in the last of which, an ap- 
pendix of cases is added, by Dr. John Jaq^ues, resi- 
dfent-physician, at Harrogate. 

In the act of parliament obtained for the enclosure 
«f this forest, the following clause was inserted, for 
the preservation and protection of these springs : 

^ And, whereas, there are within the said consta- 
♦♦ Ibleries of Bilton-with-Harrogate, and Beckwith-with- 
•♦ Rossett, or one of tliem, certain wells or springs, or 
■ •• medicinal waters, commonly called Harrogate-spawsj 
•* to which, during the summer season, great numbers 
^ of persons constantly resort, to receive the benefit 
♦ of the said waters, to the great advantage and emo- 
••• lument of tradesmen, farmers, and other persons 
*• in that neighbourhood. And, the persons resorting 
** to the said waters^ now have the benefit of taking 
R3 



114 HARROGATE. 

'* the air upon the open part of the said constableries, 

. ** To the end, therefore, that such privileges may be 

** continued and enjoyed, Be it further enacted. That, 

•* for the purposes aforesaid, two hundred acres of 

** land, adjoining, or near to the said springs of water, 

•* and to be ascertained and set out by the said com- 

** missioners, or any three o/ more of them, shall be 

^* left open, for the purposes herein after mentioned 

** and declared, concerning the same. And be it en- 

./.* acted, That the said two hundred acres of land, 

** herein before directed to be set out and ascertained, 

** near unto the said springs of water, shall be, and 

** they are hereby directed to be converted into a 

" stinted pasture, upon which such number of cattle 

** of and belonging to each of the said freeholders, 

*' and copyholders, having messuages or lands within 

** the said constableries of Bilton-with-Harrogate, and 

** Beckwith-with-Rossett, or either of them, as sliali 

^* be deemed to be in proportion to, their respective 

. '^* messuages, lands, or tenements, or pther interest 

** within the said two constableries, or either of them, 

** shall be, from time to time, grazed and kept, guch 

. ** . number of cattle of each such freeholder and copy- 

"* holder, to besettled and ascertained by the said com- 

** missioners, or any three of them, in, or by the said 

** general award j and such stinted right of common, 

, *^ of such freeliolders and copyholders, shall go, ard 

, .** be deemed, and taken in part of their respective 

** shares, or allotments of the said open commonable 



HARROGATE. 115 

** grounds, and waste lands ; and due regard thereto 
** shall be had by the said commissioners, in settling 
*' the quantity and value of the other parts of the 
** said open commonable grounds and waste lands, to 
" be allotted to such freeeholders and copyholders ; and 
** the said two hundred acres of land, shall for ever 
•* hereafter, remain open, and unenclosed; andallper- 
** sons whomsoever, shall and may have free access at 
** all times to the said springs, and be at liberty to use 
** and drink the waters there arising, and take the 
" benefit thereof, and shall, and may have use, and 
** enjoy full and free ingress, egress^ and regress in, 
** upon, and over, the said two hundred acres of land, 
" and every, or any part thereof, without being sub- 
** ject to the payment of any acknowledgment whatso- 
" ever for the same, or liable to any action of trespass 
** or other suit, molestation, or disturbance whatso- 
** ever, in respect thereof. And, to the intent the said 
** springs of medicinal waters may be preserved for the 
** benefit of all persons having occasion to make use of 
** them ; and, to prevent any damage being done there- 
. '^ to, Beit further enacted. That it shall not be lawful 
" for any person or persons whatsoever, at any time 
** after passing of this act, todigor sink any pit or,pits, 
** or work any quarry or mine whatsoever, or do any 
** other act, whereby the said medicinal springs or wa- 
, " ters may be damaged, pollute d^ or atfected, and that 
" all arid every person so otfending, may be prosecuted, 
" convicted, and punished, as fox a public nuisance/' 



il6 HAEHOGATE. 

•• And, byan-act, passed in 1789> " The said com* 
** missioners, or any 2 of them, shall, and they are 
** hereby authorized and required, by writing, under 
** their hands^ to make such rules, orders, and direc* 
** tions, (not being repugnant to law) as well for pre^ 
•* venting and punishing any abuses, by turning or 
*• keeping of cattle, on the said spot of waste-land, 
•• augmented as aforesaid, contrary to the stint, limited 
*• in that behalf, by the said general award ; as also^ 
*** for draining or levelling, or otherwise improving 
*• the said land, by planting trees thereon, for shelter 
♦* and ornament, and making walks and paths, in, on, 
*• or over the same; and, for protecting the said 
** springs, called Harrogate-spaws, from pollution, 
*^ or other injury, as they shall think best adapted to 
•* secure to the persons resorting to the said waters, 
*• the several benefits intended them by the said act ; 
"^ and, for inflicting such moderate penalties, for 
^ any wilful breach, disobedience, or non-observance 
^ of such rules and orders respectively, not exceeding 
•• 40 shillings for any one offence, as the said com- 
•* missiotiers, or any 2 of them, shall think reasonable 
** and expedient; which penalties, with all incidental 
*• charges, shall, and maybe recoverable, and reco- 
•* vered upon conviction of the offender or offenderSf 
«• before any one justice of the peace, f6r the west- 
** riding, of the county of York ; on the oath of any 
** one or more credible witness or witnesses 3 and shalli 



HARROGAT|:. 117 

'*•■ and may be levied by distress, and sale of the 
'• goods, of the oifender or offenders.'* 

For some years after the first discovery of these 
medicinal springs, the company who resorted here* 
found great inconveniences for want of proper accom- 
modation ; a particular instance of which, is related 
concerning the Duchess of Buckingham, (daugh- 
ter of Thomas lord Fairfax, the parliament's general), 
who came here for relief, m a severe asthma j and, 
finding the accommodations so very indifferent, her 
ladyship caused a tent to be pitched near the Old-spaw, 
where she spent some hours evei7 day, drinking the 
chalybeate water at proper intervals, and was so hap- 
py as to receive a complete cure. 

In the year 1687, the iirst inn, now called The 
Queen's-Head, was built; before which time, the 
water-drinkers lodged in the cottages and farm-houses, 
near the place. The company increasing every year, 
gave encouragement to the inhabitants, to increase 
their accommodations; and, before the year 1700, 
there were three good inns, at High-Harrogate. 

The ingenious author of the memoirs of John 
Buncle, esq., gave the following account of this place, 
in the year 1731 : " Of all the watering-places I know, 
** Harrogate is, in my opinion, the most charming. 
" The waters are incomparable ; no air can be better -. 



lis HAKROGATE. 

** and, with the greatest civility, cheerfulness, and 
** good-humour, there is a certain rural plainness and 
** freedom mixed, which are vastly pleasing. The 
*' lady of pleasure, the well-drest tailor, and the 
*' gamester, are not to be found there. Gentlemee 
** of the country, and women of birth and fortune, 
** their wives, sisters, and daughters, are, for the most 
** part, the company. — ^There were, at least, four-score 
** ladies in the country-dances every night, while I 
" was there; and, among them, many fine women." 

After this time, the place was visited by many, 
for the sake of pleasure and dissipation, as well as for 
the benefit of their health ; and since the year 1740, sach 
numbers of the nobility and gentry have annuallyresort- 
ed here, that it is become one of the principal watering- 
places in the northjof England ; having now eight very 
good inns, most of them large and spacious, with every 
accommodation and convenience, that can contribute 
to health and pleasure. The inns being at some dis- 
tance from each other, their respective lodgers form 
distinct societies, and live in the most social and 
agreeable manner : and, for those who prefer a more 
retired situation, there are a number of private lodg- 
ing-houses, well fitted up with every necessary and 
useful accommodation. Buildings, of all descr i ptions, 
increase every year 5 and, several of the inns now re- 
ceive annually more company, than the whole place 
contained, 40 years ago* 



HARROGATE. 11J> 

The company, in general, rise early, and repair fo 
the wells j from whence, after drinking the water, they 
return, and breakfast at separate tables, as they chance, 
or choose to come in. The time betwixt this and 
dinner, is generally spent in making excursions into 
different parts of the neighbourhood, which abounds' 
with many places well worth the attention of strangei*s : 
When the weather will not permit these excursions, a 
variety of amusements offer themselves within doors, 
as reading, playing at billiards, cards, &:c. At dinner, 
each person takes their seat, in the order they arrive 
at the place, and ascend gradually, as others leave it. 

The public balls are on Mondays and Fridays, at 
each house, in rotation ; to which, all the company from 
the other houses are invited. Each person pays one 
shilling admittance, which is applied towards the ex- 
pences ; the remaining part, is paid by those gentle- 
men who choose the amusement of dancing. 

In the year 1743, a subscription was begun for 
erecting a chapel here j the principal subscriber was 
lady Elizabeth Hastings, whose laudable example was 
followed by the contributions of the inhabitants here, 
and in the neighbourhood, and by many of the com- 
pany resorting to the place. A sufficient sum being 
raised, the chapel was soon after completed, dedicated 
to St. John^ and consecrated in the year 1749. The 
^icar of Knaresbrough is patron. By a general a^ree* 



120 HARROGATE* 

ment amongst the inhabitants, a qtiantity of land was 
enclosed upon the forest, and the rents applied to the 
maintenance of the minister, which he received till 
the general enclosure ; when the land was resumed by 
the crown, and thirty pounds per annum assigned to 
tke minister, in lieu thereof.—At this chapel, are 
prayers, every Wednesday and Friday, and a sermon 
en Sundays, throughout the yean 

The situation of High-Harrogate is exceedingly 
pleasant, and commands a most extensive prospect of 
the distant country, finely varied by towns, villages, 
fields, and woods. The cathedral of York is seen dis- 
tinctly, at the distance of twenty miles, and the view 
is terminated by the mountains of Craven on the west, 
Hamble ton-hills, and the Yorkshire-wolds on the east. 

This part of England being contracted into the 
form of an isthmus, connecting the northern, with 
the southern parts of the kingdom; Harrogate lies 
near the centre, at no very great distance from the 
Irish sea on one side, and the german ocean, or the 
north sea on the other. In consequence of this situ- 
ation, the most usual winds felt here, proceed either 
from some point easterly or westerly ; and, although 
the air is keen, it is exceedingly pure, after travers- 
ing an open, elevated, healthy country. The weather, 
owing to the same cause, must necessarily be variable, 
aikl tempests, from the west or east, experienced in 




^ 



^^' 









s.V 



^ 



HARROaATE. 12.1 

tiieir full violence; yet, as the moist and warm va- 
pours from these two seas, are continually attempering 
the atmosphere, severe frosts cannot continue for any 
length of time, nor snow remain long unthawed. 
The air is thought to be much purer, than that of the 
vale of York, and calculated to promote longevity; 
to which, likewise, a judicious choice and use of the 
Avaters here, may very much contribute. 

The theatre was erected in the year 17S8, and 
opened on the first of July, in the same year, by ^Ir^ 
Samuel Butler, the* manager. 

On the second of August, 1793, the Yorkshire 
Archers held theii- first meeting at Harrogate. 
Their targets were placed at the distance of one hun- 
dred yards, on the green before the Granbyinn. 
Here also, was pitched the society's tent, from the 
top of which, waved a most beautiful flag. The 
shooting commenced about eleven o'clock, and ended 
at four, when Thomas Fenton, esq., proved cap- 
tain of the target ; and, John Dixon, esq., captain 
of numbers. . The Yorkshire archers, had a target 
at the general meeting of all the societies in Eng- 
land, held May 27, 1791 , on Blackheath, and were 
within one arrow of \gaining a medal, there shot for. 

Their shooting uniform, was a plain green frock, 
and velvet cape of the same color, with uniform 
L 



1^3 HARROGATE. 

buttoris, white Avaistcoat and breeches, round black 
hati uniform button and loop, with a white ostrich 
feather, white stockings, half-boots, or black-gaiters. 
The' dress uniform, depended on the pleasure of the 
lady J)atroness, the Countess of Mexborough. 

The targets were always shot at, on public days, at 
the distance of one hundred yards. 

The four medals belonging to the society, were 
transferable, and to be shot for, at each of the six 
monthly meetings.— -The gold medal, for the captain 
of the target, was to be gained by the most centrical 
shot, during the day.— 'The large silver medal to the 
captain of numbers, for the greatest number of shots 
in the target—The silver medal, for the second best 
shot; and, the other silver medal, for the lieutenant 
of numbers, having the second greatest number of 
shots in the target 

The sum of four guineas was given by the society, 
to be shot for, on each target-day, arid distributed in 
the following manner j viz., each arrow, shot within 
the gold, or centre circle of the targets, received two 
shillings and six-pence; all arrows in the red, or se- 
cond circle, two shillings; those hitting the inner 
white, ^ or third circle, one shilling and six-pence, 
those intheblaclf, or fourth circle, one shilling; and, 
those in the outer white, or fifth circle, six-pence. 



HARLOW-HILL. 1?S 

The race-ground, at Harrogate, one mile and «. 
quarter in circumference, and sixteen yards in breadth^ 
was laid out under the inspection of colonel Clement 
Wolsley, and finished in the year 1793. 

One mile from High-Harrogate, is 

harlow-hill; 

Iff ere Low,u e. The Soldier^ s Hill*.'] From whence 
the prospect is exceedingly extensive, and abounds 
■with all the rich variety of landscape, imagination can 
conceive. 

About the year 1769, six acres of land were en- 
closed here, and planted with various sorts of fir-trees, 
which are now growing apace, and form a very plea- 
sing object, on the summit of this once steril moun- 
tain. 

When the ground was dug up, for the planting of 
these trees, several portable mill-stones, called querns, 
were found here ; and, tradition says, a british prince 
once encamped here. A cottage, called PendragojiV 
castle, was standing, till within these few years, about 
two hundred yards south of this plantation. Uter 
Pendragon, gained a complete victory over the saxons, 
near York, in the year 490. That he might encamp 

♦ Thoresby's Ducat, Leod, 

L 2 



1^4 PANKAL. 

here about that time, is not improbable— The sitwa- 
tion is one of the strongest in the county. 

One mile and a-half from Harlow-hill, is 

PANNAL, 

Anciently called Rosehurst,* perhaps from its 
abounding with that sort of briar, which produces the 
cynorrhodon or wild-rose. It might afterwards be named 
Pannal, from Pen-hall, i, e. a mansion on the top of 
a hill.t The church here, is a vicarage, dedicated 
to St. Robert, of Knaresbrough. The first minister 
that occurs is John Brown, one of the brethren of 
the house of St. Robert, 1348 : and, in the following 
year, \iz.. May 19, 1349, the church was given, by 
the earl of Cornwall, to the brethren of the said pri- 
ory. It is valued, in the king's books, at c£l2. 8*. 10^. 

yearly tenths, 10^. 6fi?. William Maunby and John 

Westcote, added to this church, in the year 17l6» 
lands, to the value of c£323-- The incumbent is now pa- 
tron, and its present annual value <£ 140. The nave 
of the church was rebuilt, and neatly finished, in the 
year 1772. The steeple and choir, are very ancientj; 
in the south-window of the latter, in painted glass, h 
across, patee, gules, and azure j above which, is the 

* By contraction, Rossett. 
i There is a house at piesent standing in this rUlage, called UUl* 



HORN-BANK* 1S5 

figure of a large gothic building, perhaps the gate\vay 
of the priory of Knaresbrough, the brethren of which, 
were patrons of this church, and being of the order 
of the Trinity, they wore the above-mentioned cross, 
on the outside of their white habit, colored as above^ 
red and blue. 

Tradition says, that king Charles L, passing by 
this village, in the month of Feb. l646-7> on his way 
from Newcastle to London, had his high-crowned hat 
struck from his head, by riding too near the boughs of 
a large tree : we are shewn the place where the tree 
stood,* and informed, that the owner, being a true loy- 
alist, immediately caused its branching honors to be 
levelled with the ground. 

The family of Pannal, bore for their arms, argent, 
a bend sable. 

One mile from Pannal, is an eminence, called; 
HORN-BANK, 

On which were lately discovered,, the remains of 
several entrenchments, forming three distinct enclo- 
sures; two of a square, and one of a circular form. 
Not far from these entrenchments, (which were pro- 

* About five hundred yards above Burn-bridge, betwixt that and 
Pannalash. 

L3 



196 BECKWITHSHAW* 

bably of danish origin,) was found, in May, 1787, a 
large boss of a bridle, with several other fragments of 
gilt brass. 

In some parts of this ground, below the above-men- 
tioned entrenchments, are places where smaH tempo- 
rary furnaces have been used for smelting iron-ore ; the 
soil on each place, is covered with ashes, amongst which 
are burni: wood, coal, and slag, 

Smeltiijg iron-ore was much practised by the fo- 
resters here, in ancient times, when the forest abounded 
with wood, insomuch, that a neighbouring village then? 
called Kirkby, was styled KirkbT/'Ore-blo'werSf which 
name, in the lapse of time, hath been changed to thafc 
©f Kirkhy-over-bloxp^ 

Near Pannal, is 

BECKWITHSHAW; 

The original seat of the Beckwith family; the last 
lemains of their estate here, was sold out of the fa- 
mily, about the year 1753, situated in BrakenthwaitCj^ 
and purchased by Edwin Lascelles, esq., of Mr. John 
Beckwith, of Knaresbrough. Before the conquest^ 
Gamelbar had two oxgangs of land here. It is a 
pleasant part of the forest, and still retains some ap- 
pearance of the shaiSf or small tvood^ the trees sur- 



HEYWRA-PARK. 127 

founding the farm-houses, aiid> being thinly scat- 
tered through the fields. 

One -mile from Beckwithshaw, is a very ancient 
enclosure, called ' 

HEYWRA-PARK^ 

[Het/9 an enclosure, and Wra?/^ a small brook, or 
drain, in a low marshy situation.] In this park (ancf- 
ently a royal chase,) the men of Killinghall formerly 
claimed a right of depasturing their cattle, as appears 
by the following extract from the records in the tower 
of London : 

** It is commanded, the archbishop of York, That 
** he, by good and lawful men of the soke of Knares- 
•*brough and Boroughbridge, who may best know, 
** and are willing to speak the truth, diligently to in- 
** quire, if William de Stuteville, (when he first reco- 
** vered the soke of Knaresbrough,) dispossessed the 
*• men of Killinghall, of the pasture of Heywra, of 
** his own will j and, whether the said pasture was in 
•*his lordship j and also, whether the aforesaid men 
** ought to have common-right therein. And, if it 
** appear to him, (by that inquisition), that the afore^ 
** said William dispossessed these men, of the same 
** pasture, solely of his own will> and, that the said 
*' pasture was not in his lordship, and, that they 
** ought to have common-right therein; it is command- 



128 HEYWRA-PiLRK. 

•*ed, that he make full seizure of the aforesaid pas* 
** ture, for the above-named men. 

** Given by the king, at Knaresburgh, Sd day of 
** December, mir-^Claus, 12, Hen, IIL, M. 14. 

This park contains upwards of two thousand acres, 
is now divided into farms, and hath been, for several 
ages, in the possession of the ancient family of the 
Ingilbys, of Ripley: sir John In GiXtBY, hart., being 
the present owner. 

At the west end of this ancient enclosure, situated 
on the point of a hill, are the remains of a strong tow- 
er, with suitable out- works -, the foundations, and part 
of the gateway only remaining. Its dimensions appear 
to have been an exact square, each side measuring 
fifty feet 5 the ditch, in some places, is twenty-four feet 
deep, and five hundred feet in circumference. In the 
valley below, are the remains of a garden and fish- 
pond. 

JBy whom the park was enclosed, or the tower erect*- 
ed, is not known ; it is commonly called " John of 
Gaunt's castle,'* and perhaps was erected by that 
prince, when lord of Knaresbrough, about the year 
1371. Here the keeper and assistants, might reside 
ki safety, and the deer be effectually protected, from 
the lawless attempts of roving delijiquents. 



FEWSTON, AND HAMPSTHWAITE. 129 

West of these ruins, on the opposite hill, are the 
remains of a large camp. 

One mile from Heywra-Park, is 

FEWSTON. 

This village probably takes its name from the Nor- 
man Fuist, which signifies large and lofty trees ; and, 
for which, this part of the forest might have once been 
remarkable. The church here was given to the bre- 
thren of the house of St. Robert, at Knaresbrough, 
about the year 1351. The first minister that occurs, 
is William Plestiz, anno, 1234. It is a vicarage, and 
now in the gift of the lord chancellory — its present 
annuaWalue, c£70. 

Five miles from Fewston, is 

HAMPSTHWAITE. 

[Ham, a village; and Thwaite, a field cleared oi 
wood.] This town was parcel of the possessions of the 
lords Tiptoft. It is pleasantly situated on the southern 
banks of the river Nidd. The church, dedicated to 
Thomas-a-Becket, was anciently appendant to the 
mother church of Burgh. The patronage belonged 
to the Stutevilles, lords of Knaresbrough; and, after- 
wards, to Richard, earl of Cornwall, who gave the 
advowsoA to the house of St^ Robert. — The first mi- 



ISO CLINT. 

nister that occurs, as vicar, is John Flour, 1280* 
It is a vicarage, aud the incumbent is now patron ; the 
present annual value, c£l30. There were anciently 
two chantries in this church ; one, dedicated to St. 
Sy th, the other, to the Virgin Mary, and St. Anne. 

One mile from Hampsthwaite, is 

CLINT; 

The aame seems to be derived from the German- 
Klingh^ which signifies the side of a hill, and corres- 
ponds exactly with its situation. 

Here was also a seat of theBECKwixH family, 
who bore for their arms, argent, a chevron, be- 
tween three hinds' heads, erased, gules ; and appear 
to be descended from Gamelbar, lord of the manor of 
Beckwith, and many other places; who, in the time 
of Edward the confessor, had three carucates of land 
in Clint. Hamond Beckwith, was seized of the lord- 
'Ship of Clint, with the manor of Beckwith, and 
Beckwithshaw, in the year 1319. He married a 
daughter of sir Philip Tylney. 
>•■ 

William Beckwith, esq., married a daughter 
of sir Gerrard Uslert. 

Thomas Beckwith, esq., married a daughter af 
John Sawley, esq., 1381. 



CXINT. 131 

Adam Beckwith, was living in the year 1381. 

William Beckwith, 1443. 

Sir William Beckwith, of Clint, knight, 
was seized afso of the manor of Beckwith and Beck- 
withshaw, in the year 1480. 

Part of the old mansion, is yet remainhig here, 
called "Clint-hall," a very ancient stone building, 
with an arched portal, situated on a high hill, which 
commands a most extensive prospect/ The moat that 
once surrounded this mansion, is still discernible. 

Sir Solomon Swale, resided in Clint, about the 
year 1613; when he surveyed the forest of Knares- 
brough, in order to have it enclosed. According to 
his survey, the forest then contained 28151 acres. 

This place gi^ve nairie to a family, some of "W^hom 
•still remain in this cdiinty. 

William CLii^t%\j^t^i^M'im^ 
James, at Ripon. 

'John 'tTLiNT founded' a chantry at Ripori, calle'd 
** Lady-church." 

The romian road froni Hkley, over this forest, sepa- ' 
rated into two branches, at this place 5 the one leading 
toCattH-ick, the other to AJdbrough, : '«^^^^ ^^- -* 



Edward, earl of Cornwall, granted to the 
monks of Fountains, House-dote and Hey-bote^ in his 
woods, within the forest of Knaresbrough. He Hke- 
wise gave them the bees and the honey, found in his 
woods, and also, leave to enclose the wood of Brim- 
ham; but yet, in such a manner, that the beasts of the 
forest might pass into and out of it. 

Two miles from Clint, is 
KILLINGHALL, 

In doomsday-book, called Ckeyiihalkf i. e. Kennel- 
hall; probably a place where the hounds (which be- 
longed to the lord of the manor,) were kept.* 

The Norwich troop of horse, which was a part of 
Cromwell's regiment, were quartered at Killinghall, in 
July 1644, a few days after the battle of Marston, 
This troop had, embroidered on their colours. La 
Troupe des Vierges, being raised by the voluntary 
subscription of the young ladies of Norwich. 

It was for some centuries the seat.of the family of 
Pulleyn. Captain John Levens, who lived in the 
reign of Charles I., having, in the latter part of his 
life, quitted the army, b(^q^e ojie of the people 

•»• 4siiQb)eman, inthecoutityofYorki had jjowfer granted him, by one 
of the saxon kings, to keep mastiff.dogs, foF f^a^mg twelves p\^ of hi? 
territories.-— Fide DugdaWs Bar, J. toni; p, 4d. 



KILLINGHALL. 133 

called quakers, and retired to this peaceful solitude ; 
where he ended his days, in the year 1668. He and 
his two sons are interred in an orchard here; and, 
perhaps, no places are more proper, to bury our dead 
in, than gardens, groves, or airy fields. This custom 
is of the highest antiquity; the greeks, or eastern 
christians, do not bury in churches. 

The house still bears the name of Leven's-hall. 
The mansion of the Pulleyns, with some other stately 
buildings, formerly at this place, have been suffered 
to decay, and, out of their materials, farm-houses 
and their offices are erected : heaps of ruins, covered 
with grass, mark the place where two of those mansi- 
ons stood. A porter's lodge is seen at the end of a 
barn, the lower part of which, being thirteen feet 
square, and having two arched gateways, is now con- 
verted into a cow-house, while the chamber above, 
-with an ornamental ceiling, serves the purpose of a 
dove-cote, 

There was a family of the name of Killinghall, 
seated at Middleton St. George, in the county of 
Durham, for many centuries, the only one of that name 
in the kingdom ; but, became extinct, about 1763 ; they 
probably came from hence. Arms— gules, a bend 
raguled, argent, between three garbs of the second. 

In the year 1319, a grant was obtained by the owners 

M 



^34 KILLINGIIALL. 

of the IRON-FORGE, in this forest, of all the diy 
wood, and leafless trees, to be found therein. 



King Henry VL granted a right of common, on 
this forest, to the prior of Bolton, ^vhich was to ex- 
tend from Washburne-head and Timble, unto the 
/y /e of the said water. 

The abbot of Fountains had also a grant of com^ 
mon, which was to extend from Washburne to Bla- 
wathej and thence, to Plumpton-gate ; thence, to 
Barlet-saile; thence, to Darley-beck; and, from 
thence, to the water of Nidd. 

The prior and abbot, each opened mines for lead- 
ore, on their respective grounds; which gave great 
offence to the foresters in general, and occasioned 
numberless complaints. The foresters, not being able 
to prevent the monks from getting lead-ore, endea- 
voured to possess themselves of the same advantage j 
and, obtained a grant to open mines for lead-ore, at 
Middletong, Mongagill, Craven-cross, Greenhow, 
&c., and worked several shafts with good effect. The 
prior of Bolton, enraged at their success, and eager 
to make reprisals, for former injuries done to his lead- 
ivorks, employed a number of riotous persons, who 
raade forcible entry into the premises, and took awa\^ 
the ore, cast in the mines, and did other damage, on the 
6th of March, 1 529. The sufferers complained against 



K1LLINGIIALL> 135 

the prior, and his adherents, and obtained a commissi- 
on of inquiry, directed to sir William Mauleverer, and 
others j >vho, repairing to the forest, for the execution 
thereof, were met by a great number of men, of the 
prior's part}^ who threatened the commissioners, and 
behaved in so outrageous a manner, that they could 
not, with safety, proceed on the business at that time. 
These disputes, at length, ended in favor of the 
abbot and prior, and, the foresters were obliged to 
submit. 

In 1731, two pigs of lead wer<J discovered on Hay- 
shaw-moor, in the manor of Dacre, on the estate of 
sir John Ingilby, of Ripley, bart. ; one, is preserved 
by the family ; the other, was presented to the british 
museum. They are both inscribed, with raised capi- 
tals: "IMPERATORE CiESARE DOMITIANO AUGUS- 

TO CONSULE sEPTiMUMj" this was cast in the year 
87. On one side, is the word "brig," signifying, 
that it came from the country of the Brigantes. Se- 
veral of these pigs of lead have been found, with 
imperial inscriptions, in different parts of the king- 
dom ; by which it is clear, that the government then 
took the mineral concerns into their own hands j 
and, had their stamp-masters, in proper places. On 
this forest, (some years ago,) was found, a large 
medal, inscribed, ^'lo. Kendall Rhodi. Turcu- 
PELARius Tempore OBSIDIONIS Turhcorum. 
MCCCCLXXX.'' On one side, is his head^ and, 
M 2 



136 KILLINGHALL. 

on the other, his arms.* The legend informs us, that 
John Kendal was present at the siege of Rhodes, when 
Mahomet tl^ great, in vain attempted to reduce that 
fortress, in the year USO.— The oflSce of the Grand 
TuRcopoLiER, or colonel of the cavalry, belonged 
particularly to the english nation^ 

During the civil war, in the-reign of Charles I. ; 
and, all the time of the inter-regnum, the royal 
FORESTS, in particular, suffered so considerably, that 
many extensive ones were so entirely stripped of their 
wood, as to have scarce any memorial left, but their 
names. The boundaries of this forest, were anciently 
perambulated every three years, by the constable of 
Knaresbrough-castle, and, the most respectable men 
amongst the foresters, each on horseback, having a 
boy behind him, of about ten years of age. The last 
perambulation, was made in the year 1767 ; soon after 
which, (namely, in 1770) an act of parliament was 
obtained for its division and enclosure jf since that 
time, great part of the forest has undergone a very 
pleasing and happy alteration i and, though the ex- 
pences of bringing some parts of it into a state of 
cultivation, have been much greater than the owners 
expected j yet, upon the whole, this improvement 

♦ Engraved in Thoresby's Ducatus Lcodiensis. 
t Twenty-eight thousand acres were enclosed*) 



KILLIKGHALL. 137 

cannot fail of being beneficial to the community in 
general. 

In making drains in some of the marshy places herr^ 
have been discovered the trunks of large trees, sunk 
below the surface, at different depths, of different 
sorts of wood, as oak, fir, &c., which are supposed, 
by some writers, to be the effects of the deluge, and 
by others, to have been cut down bv the romans, to 
prevent the continual depredations the britons made 
upon them, from their thick woods, and impassible 
marshes, intercepting their provisions, and killing 
their convoys. This occasioned public order for de- 
stroying the woods that screened these plunderers j in 
which service, the emperor Severus, (who died at 
York) is said to have lost fifty thousand men. 

It appears, they were destroyed partly by fire, and 
partly by the axe, as evident marks of the tool are 
feen on some of them Burnt wood, and fir-cones, 
are frequently found in those places. 

Fossil representations of various kinds of shell-fish 
are found in the middle of stones, dug from a quarry 
at a place called Knox, near Harrogate, and other 
parts of this forest: Also, the comu ammoniSf or 
snake-stone, of different sizes. Fossils, representing 
branches of the yew, fir, euphorbium, and several other 
trees, cut or broken in short lengths, of four or five 
M 3 



138 KILLINGHALL. 

inches each, and about three or four in diameter, 
are frequently found here. They are called, by some, 
petrifactions; by others, lusus naturce ; and, many 
have been the arguments used, in support of each 
opinion, by Woodward, Lister, Camerarius, Nichol- 
son, and others 5 yet, after all these conjectures, we 
must leave them unaccounted for, and acknowledge, 
that they must be ranked amongst the arcana of na- 
ture, which elude all human researches. 

The most extraordinary and unaccountable phse- 
Tiomena seems to be, that of living animals being found 
in the middle of blocks of stone; and yet, wonderful 
as such circumstances may appear, many instances of 
the truth thereof are well attested, in this and other 
parts of the kingdom. In the year 1776, a workman, 
digging for limestone on Thistle-hill, near Knares- 
brough, discovered a live toad in the solid rock, some 
feet below the surface, which died sood after its expo- 
sure to the air. It was of the common size, and of a 
darker color than these reptiles usually are; had but 
three ftQi, and a stump instead of the fourth. 

Mr. William Pull an, of Blubber-house, in 
this forest, having occasion, in the year 1761, to break 
a stone, which was about four feet square, found a 
living serpent, fifteen inches long, enclosed in the 
middle of the block ; its back, was of a dark brown, 
and the belly, of a silver color j the oval cavity in 



KILLINGHALE. 139 

which this reptile lay, was about twelve inches long, 
and six wide. In a stone quarry, at Harwood, was 
found, about thirty years ago, eighteen feet below the 
surface, a stag s horn, enclosed in the solid rock. 
This horn was in the possession of Mr. Joshua Craven, 
late of Harwood. 

Here are also found, many of the ancient domestic 
mill-stones, called querns, consisting of one circular 
flat stone, of about eighteen inches diameter, upon 
which, was placed the upper-stone, nearl) shaped like 
a sugar-loaf, with a hole quite through the middle, 
from top to bottom ; on the side, was a handle fixed. 
The whole was placed on a cloth, and the grinder 
poured in the corn with one hand, and with the other, 
turned the upper-stone with a rapid motion, while the 
meal run out at the sides, and fell upon the cloth. 
This method of grinding, was exceedingly tedious j 
and, would employ two pair of hands, four hours, to 
grind one bushel of corn.— As most of the upper-stones 
have a piece broken off the sides of each, it is proba- 
ble, they were all rendered useless, by order of the 
lord of each manor, after the invention of wind, and 
water-mills. 

This forest abounded with wild-boars, the red 
and fallow deer, and other animals of chase. 
Free ingress and egress are reserved for the wild- 
beasts here, in certain lands adjoining to this forest. 



140 KILLINGHALL. 

granted to the priory of Knaresbrough, and confirmed 
to them, by Edward IL, as appears by the following 
extract from the charter : ** Salvis nobis, et haeredi* 
** busnostris, bestiisnostris silvestribus, itaquodlibe* 
** rum habeant introitum, et exitum sicut priufi 
** habere consueverunt in predictis. 

The fox, hare, and badger j the black, and red 
moor-game ; grey, and green plover ; curlew, and 
snipe j the wild-duck, and widgeon^ still afford ample 
amusement for the sportsman, in different parts of 
this forest. 

In the unimproved parts, and particularly the open 
stray, about Harrogate, great numbers of young oaks 
are seen springing up every summer ; which, were they 
not cropped by the cattle, would probably, in a 
course of years, restore to this place the appearance 
it had many centuries ago. 




BlLTOi^. 141 



STAGE III. 

Harrogate to Bihon-park. — Conyngham-house. 
"^Scriven.—Scotton. — Farnham. — Copgrove. 
— Brereton. — Nidd.-^Ripley. 

"NE mile east from High- Harrogate, is abridge 
©ver a small brook, called Star-beck. About two 
hundred yards on the right of this bridge, are two 
springs, formerly in great repute, but now quite ne- 
glected ; the distance betwixt these springs is only 18 
yards j and yet, one of them is a sulphur water, and 
the other, a chalybeate. These were called the Knares- 
trough spaws. 

Half a mile from hence, on the left of the road 
leading to Knaresbrough, is 

BILTON, 

Probably derived from the British Bilain, a 
a farmer, a tenant in villenage, Peter Slingsby, 
esq., resided here, about the year 1500. Captain 
William Slingsby, also, in 1751. The family of 
Stockdales, were afterwards lords of this place, for moro 



142 BILTON. 

than one hundred years, who bore for their arms— 
Ermine, on a bend sable, three pheons argent, in the 
sinister chief, an^ escallop-shell gules — Crest, a talbot 
passant, proper. 

William Stockdale, of Green-Hammerton, 
was living in 1506. He had a numerous issue; a- 
mongstwhom, was Thomas Stockdale, of Bilton-park. 

William Stockdale, esq., member m parlia- 
ment, for Knaresbrough, obit 1693. 

Christopher Stockdale, esq., represented the 
borough of Knaresbrough, in several parliaments j 
obit 1713. He was succeeded by William Stockdale, 
who was living here in the year 1720, and was a suffer- 
er in the infamous South-sea schetnfe, which ruined 
some hundreds of families. 

From the family of Stockdale, this estate passed^ 
by sale, to that of Watson ; John Farside Watson, esq., 
being the present possessor. This gentleman is de- 
scended from John Farside, of Farside, in Scotland, 
who came into England in the reign of James I., and 
was made bow-bearer in the forest of Pickering, in 
the county of York ; he chief! jj resided at Filingdale, 
in Whitby-strand, and bore for his arms, gules, a fess, 
or, between three bezants. Bilton-hall has every 
advantage of situation, and commands an extensive 
prospect. 



CONYNGIIAM-IIOU.^E. 143 

In the park, is a spring of sulphur-watery also, 
several petrifying springs, near which, are found 
mosses, and other vegetable substances, on which, 
incrustations have been formed. Marble, alabaster, 
and coal, are likewise found in different parts of this 
estate, 

Gamelba^ .»ad, in Bilton, before the conquest, 
three cdrucatc- .ind a half of land, and as much arable 
as was sufficient for two ploughs. Gilbert Tyson had 
these lands, 90th William I., and they were then 
uncultivated or waste, onlv Bilton paid 3s. rent. 

Proceeding towards Knaresbrough, observe, 
within half a mile of the town, a vista, of considerable 
length, formed by the trees on each side the road, and 
terminated by an elegant mansion, the seat of James 
Collins, esq.. In the back ground is seen Claro-hilU 
wooded to the very summit, and the temple in Aller- 
ton-park ; from kence, the scene is beautifully varied, 
till you arrive at the bridge, near which is 

Conyngham - House^ 

rORMERLY CALLED 

COGHILL-HALL; 

Situated on a small elevation, above the river 
ISidd^ the length of the south-front is one hui^dred 



144 CONYNGHAM-HOUSE. 

and thirty feeU and that of the east, eighty feet, tn 
the course of the buildings, are five projections, form- 
ing so many large bow windows, from which the town 
and CHURCH of Knaresbrough, the stately ruins of 
the CASTLE, the bridge over the river, "with Bel* 
MOND-vi^ooD, and Bilton-park, compose a most 
beautiful landscape. 

The DINING-ROOM, is thirty-two feet by eighteen. 
The DRAWING-ROOM, is thirty-one by twenty-four. 
The MUSIC-ROOM, is twenty-two by sixteen. 
The library, is twenty by twenty. 

The lawn falls gently towards the river, on the 
bank of which, a fine gravel walk winds through a 
thick grove, to a retired and pleasing spot, called the 
hermitage, where a rustic cell, built of stones 
and moss, is placed, near a natural cascade, which the 
river forms, by falling over a ridge of rocks j from hence, 
the walk is carried up the hill, winding through a va- 
riety of flowering shrubs, and evergreens, to the front 
of the house. The meadows, wood, and water, which 
lie below, and opposite the shrubbery, afford some 
views, scarce to be equalled in the extensive lawns of 
Studley, or amidst the wild and alpine scenery of 
Hackfall. 

This house, for several centuries^ belonged to the 
CoghiU family; but, was purchased of sir John 



SCRIVEN-HALX. 145 

Coghill, bart., with fifty-one acres of land, by the 
right honorable, the countess of Conyngham, in the 
year 1796. 

Half a mile from hence, is 
SCRIVEN-HALL ;* 

A seat of the ancient family of the Slingsbys, plea- 
santly situated in the park, on the right of the road, 
leading from Knaresbrough to Ripley. It has under- 
gone many alterations : Some additions were made to 
it, in the early part of the reign of queen Elizabeth; 
and, a suit of rooms, then finished, were first occupied 
by Thomas, the seventh earl of Northumberland, 
brother to lady Mary Slingsby. The new front was 
added, with many other improvements, and the road 
made through the park,t by sk Henry Slingsby, a* 
bout the year 1730. 

A winding walk, near a mile in extent, leads from 
the west side of the house, through a very fine wood 
of elm and beech trees, whose foilage, uniting above, 
forms a most pleasing solitary shade, rendered still 



* Scri\'lfen ; the residence of the schrieve or sheriff of the district, who 
(in saxon times) held his scyregemot, or court, twice a year, as the she- 
riff's-tum is at this day. 

t Anciently styled Heal-park, (Heal, saxon, Hall) q. d, Hallpark. 

N 



146 SCRIVEN-HAIIrt 

more agreeable by the distant clamour of the rookery, 
and the soft notes of the plaintive stock-doves. 

The family of Scriven descended from Gamel, 
the king's fowler, settled here soon after the conquest. 
They bore for their arms— argent, a chevron, between 
two lion's faces, in chief, gules, and a bugle-horn, 
in base. Baldwin, son of Gamel, was forester of 
the forest and parks of Knaresbrough. 

Henry, the forester of Knaresbrough, son and 
heir of Bald^vin, married Emma, daughter of Robert 
de Merkingtoii, temp. Henry III. 5 by whom, he had 
issue Baldwin, the forester, who died without issue, 
and Thomas de Scriven. 

This Henry, the forester, gave certain lands in 
Merkington, with Adam de Merkington, and all his 
family, cattle, and goods, to the monks of Fountains- 
abbey. 

Thomas de' Scriven, forester of Knaresbrough, 
andfeodary,* in the year 1273, married Agnes, daugh- 
ter of John de Walkingham, sister and heiress of sir 
Alan and Adam de Walkingham ; by whom, he had 
i^sue Rodolphus, who died without issue; Mabella, 



♦ Feodary; the seneschal, or prime steward ; who received tiie ctts- 
tom^ryfees of the lords; aids, reliefs, iierriots, &c.. JSTewiCt. 



SCRIVEN-HALL. 14? 

and Margaretta, 31st Edward I.; and, Henry de 
Scriven, forestarius, 9th of Edward IL, who mar- 
ried Alice, daughter and co-heiress of Richard de 
Caperun, of Scotton, by whom he had Joanna, 
daughter and co-heiress, married to William de Slings- 
by. Henry de Scriven, anno 31st Edward I., petiti- 
oned the king, for that he and his ancestors had 
enjoyed the office of foresters, of the forest of 
Knaresbrough j and had, belonging to the same, 6d. per 
diem, and common of pasture, in the said forest, and 
the parks of Hey and Bilton, before the said parks 
were enclosed j and, after the enclosure of those 
parks, for all the beasts of their own breed, except 
sheep and goats; and, that they^vere now interrupted 
in the enjoyment of the above privilege, by sir Miles 
Stapleton, the steward of Knaresbrough. 

In answer to the said petition, it was, in the exche- 
quer chamber, on the 31st of Edward I., decreed, 
that the petitioner shall continue to enjoy, without 
interruption, all the aforesaid privileges; and also, 
shall take, from the king's woods there, all reasonable 
house-bote, hey-bote,* &c., that he may have occa- 
sion for ; so as he do not cut down any oak, ash, or 
hazel, or any tree growing or bearing fruit. It was 
also granted, that he should have pasture in the park 



* House-bote —V^ood, for the house use.— ■ 
^cy-fcote— Wood^ for repairing of hays, hedges, or fences. 
N 2 



MS SCRIVEN-HAHL. 

of Bilton, for his oxen used in the plough, and hlsf 
tnilk-kyne* 

Anno 1st Edward IL, Henry de Scriven was again 
interrupted in the enjoyment of these privileges, by 
command of Peter de Gaveston, then earl of Cornwall , 
but, after an inquisition taken, it was found, that 
Gamel, ancestor of the said Henry, had enjoyed- tha 
same j and also, the office of forester of the forest, 
and, keeper of the parks, of Knaresbrough. 

John, the son of William de Slingsby, married 
Agnes de North-Stodligh, heiress of William, th& 
son of Simon de Stodligh, temp. Edward I. 

William de Slingsby de Stodligh, married 
Joanna, heiress of Henry de Scriven*, anno 1 1th of 
Edward III., and succeeded to the office of forester 
of the forest and parks of Knaresbrough. He had issue, 
Bichard, who died, S. P., 3ist of Edward III., and 
Gilbert. 

Gilbert Slingsby, second son, married the 
daughter of William Calverley, esq., and had issue, 
William. 

William Slingsby, married the daughter of 
Thomas Banks, of Whixley, esq., and had issue, 
Richard. 

Richard Slingsby, esq., married Anne, daugh- 

♦ Since this piarriage, the Slingsbys have borne the arms of Scrivei^ 



I 



SCRIVEN-HALL. 149 

ttr and co-heiress of John or William Nesfield, of 
Nesfield ; by ^vhom he had the manors of ScottoD, 
BreartoDj and Thorp 5 and, had issue, William, 

William Slingsby, living 20th Henry VL, mar- 
ried Joan, daughter of sir Robert Plompton, of Plomp- 
ton, knight, and had issue, William, John, Robert, 
Thomas, andAgnes, married to Thomas Knaresbrough»^ 

William Slingsby, of Scriven, esq., son and 
heir, married Janet, daughter of sir John Melton, of 
Aston, knight, and had issue, John* 

John Slingsby, of Scriven, esq., son and heir, 
chief forester of Knaresbrough, who married Joan, 
daughter of William or Walter Calverley, esq., and 
had issue, John, Jane, prioress of Nun-Monkton^ 
Margery, wife of John Coghill, and Margaret, wife 
of William Tancred, esq.. 

John Slingsby, esq., son and heir, married Mar- 
gery, daughter of Simon Pooley, of Radley, in Suffolk, 
and had issue, Thomas, John, Marmaduke, Peter,* 
Simon, Anne, wife of Thomas Swale, esq., Margery, 
wife of Walter PuUeyn, of Scotton, esq., Isabel, 
married to Thomas Langton, of Harrogate, esq.. 

Thomas Slingsby, esq., of Scriven, sonandheir^ 
married Joan, daughter of sir John Mallory, knight 
of Studley, in com. Ebor., and had issue, sir Fran- 

* This Peter was father of Anthony Slingsby, esq., governor of Zut- 
phen, in the low countries, who was advdnced to the degree of an 
ei^lish baronet, October 23, 3628,* but, dying without issue, iCjft 
Uje title, in this branch, became extinct. 

N3 



150 SCRIVEN-HALL. 

cis, Marmaduke, Charles, a clergj^maii, William^ 
Pfeter, Thomas, Joan, wife of William Basforth, of 
Thormanby; Dorothy, wife of Francis Tancred, of 
Boroughbridge; Anne, married to Robert Byrnand* 
of Knaresbrough, esq., and Elizabeth, married to 
Christopher Conyers, of Hornby, esq.. 

Sir Francis Slingsby, knight, of Scriven, son 
and heir, died anno dom. 1600. He married Mary, 
daughter of sir Thomas Percy, knight, second bro- 
ther to Henry, earl of Northumberland, she died 
1598 : They had issue, nine sons and three daughters y 
1st, Thomas, drowned in the river Ni<3d, aged 28, 
SIP.; 2d, Francis, and 3d, Henry, both died young; 
4th, sir Henry; 5th, Arthur, who died S. P., 1588; 
6th, Charles; 7th, sir William; 8th, sir Guildford 
Slingsby, knight, comptroller of the navy, whose 
son, sir Arthur, was created a baronet, by king Charles 
II., at Brussels, June 24, 16^27, which title is extinct; 
9th, sii' Francis Slingsby, knight,* of Kilmore, in 
com. Cork, Ireland; he was constable of Holyboling- 
castle, in com. Cork, and one of the king's council, 
in Munster; Eleanor, and Anne, both died young, 
and Catherine. 

Sir Henry Slingsby, knight, fourth, but eld- 
est surviving son and heir, was high-sheriff of York- 
shire, lOtk of James I., died December 1634. He 

^ For several extraordiiiary instances of this gentleman's militarjr 
prowess, see Stafford'^ Pacata Hibemia* 



SCRIVEN-HALL. 151 

married Frances, daughter of William Vavasour, of 
Weston, esq., by Frances, his wife, one of the daugh- 
ters of sir Leonard Beckwith, of Selby, knight, and 
had issue, 1st, William, killed at Florence, and left 
Ho issue ', 2d, sir Henry ; 3d, Thomas, died in France, 
unmarried , Elizabeth, wife of sir Thomas Metcalf, 
knight; Mary, wife of sir Walter Bethel, knight; 
Catharine, married to sir John Fenwick; Alice, to 
Thomas W^aterton, esq.; Frances, to Bryan Staple- 
ton, esq. ; and Eleanor, to sir Arthur Ingram, knight. 
Sir Henry Slingsby, eldest surviving son, and 
heir, was created a baronet of Nova Scotia; and, was 
member in parliament, for Knaresb rough, 1640; co- 
lonel in the king's service, during the whole time of 
the civil war, and spent a great part of his ample for- 
tune, in the service of his sovereign. He was frequently 
in action, during the war ; and, after the death of 
Charles, was ever solicitous for the restoration of his 
son. He was long a prisoner, at Hull ; and, was tried 
for contracting with some officers, to deliver up one of 
the block-houses in that garrison, for the service of 
Charles II. Cromwell, who was informed that the 
royalists, throughout the kingdom, were intent upon 
a scheme to restore the king, was resolved to inti- 
midate that party, by sacrificing sir Henry Slings- 
by, and Dr. Hewit. They were brought before 
the high-court of justice, where Lisle presided; the 
jurisdiction whereof, they denied ; but, were condemn- 
ed, without any ceremony. Sir Henry was a man of 



152 &CRIVEN-HA.LL. 

deeds, rather than words: He said very little upoa 
his trial, and as little upon the scaffold 3 persisting in 
his loyalty, and told the people that he died for being 
an honest man. He was beheaded the 8th of June, 
1658. He married Baibara, daughter of Thomas 
Bellasyse, the first viscount Fauconberg, by whom he 
had issue, sir Thomas, Henry, and Barbara, who was 
married to sir John Talbot, of Lacock,* in Wilts, 
knight; and Catherine, wife of sir John Fenwick, 
knight. 

Sir Thomas Slingsby, bart., son and heir, was 
high-sheriif of Yorkshire, 14th of Charles 11.; mar- 
ried Dorothy, daughter and co-heiress of George 
Craddock, by whom he had issue, sir Henry, who 
died S. P., 1692; sir Thomas; and Barbara, wha 
had three husbands; Ist, sir Richard Mauleverer, 
bart; 2d, John lord Arundel; and 3d, Thomas, 
earl of Pembroke. Sir Thomas Slingsby, barL, 
succeeded his brother, sir Henry, and married Sarah, 
daughter of John Savile, ofMethley, esq., by whom 
be had issue, sir Henry Slingsby, who died 1763, 
S. P. Sir Thomas Slingsby succeeded sir Henry, 
his brother, but died unmarried, January 18, 1763; 
and, was succeeded by his next brother, sir Savile 
Slingsby, bart., who also died unmarried, 1780. 
Charles Slingsby, esq., the younger brother, 

* The original picture, from wlience Veitu* esgraved bis print, i» ia 
tlie possession of this familj. 



CONYNG-GARTH. 153 

married Miss Turner, and had issue, Thomas Tur- 
ner Slingsby, and Sarah; sir Savile, had also hvo 
sisters; 1st, Mary, who was maid of honor to queen 
Aime, and married to Thomas Duncombe, of Helms- 
tey, esq.; and, 2d, Barbara. 

Sir Thomas Turner Slingsby, baronet, was 
high-sheriff, in 1785. His first lady, was Miss Cathe- 
rine Buckley, by whom he had issue, Thomas, bom 
January [0, 1775, and Charles, born March 17, 1777: 
lais second lady, was Miss Mary Slingsby, by whom he 
had no issue. He died April 1 1 , 1806; and, was suc- 
ceeded by sir Thomas, the present baronet. 

Ai^ms, — Quarterly, Scriven and Slingsby, over all, 
argent, a salt ire azure, surmounted by a shield or,, 
bearing within a double tressure, a lion rampant gules, 
being the badge of a baronet, of Nova-Scotia. 

Crest, — On a wreath, argent, and gules, a lioQ 
passant vert 

Supporters, — On the dexter, an unicorn pearl, 
horn, mane, hoofs, collar, and chain, topaz. On 
the sinister, asayage proper, wreathed about his tern- 
pies and middle with laurel. 

Motto. — ** Vejitas libera vit." 

Near the village of Scriven, is an eminence, called 

CONYNG-GARTH: 

[i.e. The King' sEndosurei] This piece of ground 



154 GATES-HILL CAMP* 

is about six hundred yards in length, and two hun- 
dred in breadth ; nearly encompassed, on three sides, 
by a precipice, and, on the remaining part, the 
want of the precipice hath been supplied by va- 
rious terraces, cut in the side of the hill, rising above 
each other J a mode of fortification very common 
amongst the northern nations, in ancient times. The 
name of this hill, its form, and situation, render it 
very probable, that here some saxon monarch, with his 
army, were formerly encamped*. Ob a rising ground^, 
about half a mile from hence, were found, some 
years ago, by men digging for gravel, five, or six hu- 
man skeletons, laid side by side, with each a small 
urn placed at its head. These were probably saxons* 
interred, according to ancient custom, at some dis- 
tance from the camp^ 

About half a mile further westward, on the left ot 
the road, leading from Knaresbrough to Ripley, are 
some entrenchments, called 

GATES-HILL CAMP, 

Situated two hundred feet above the river Nidd, 
to which, on one side, the descent is very steep. The 
area of the camp, within the entrenchments, mea- 



* At a small distance from hence,, is a piece of ground, called Mar^ 
ket Flat — probably the place whore provisioas we^e brought^ to-suppjj 
the cfltnp* 



Se^OTTON. 155 

•^\ircs, in length, three hundred and eighty feet, and is 
two hundred feet widej it would not conveniently 
contain more than one thousand men. The high 
insulated hill, is characteristic of almost every danish 
camp. At what time, or by whom, this was formed, 
is not certainly known; though, it is supposed that 
lord Fairfax encamped here, the latter end of the year 
1644, before he stormed the town of Knai'esbrougb, 
and, during the sie^e of the castle there. 

From hence, is a charming view of the river, run- 
ning beneath, in form of a horse's shoe, round a fine 
promontory, with a tract of wood extending along 
the banks ; and, a prospect of a vast extent of country 
far beyond* 

Proceeding from Gates-Hill, one mile towards 
Ripley, on the right, is the village of 

SCOTTON, 

Whose first inhabitants were, probably, fiom Scot- 
land, as its name implies, and, may have once belonged 
to the scot's monastery, at Ripon, which was dissolved 
by Wilfrid, about the year 676. Robert de Bruce, 
had two carucates of land here, 20th of William I.. 
This nobleman, (from whom the kings of Scotland, 
and, the illustrious family of Bruce, earls of Ayles- 
bury, are descended,) was a person of such valor, and, 
so much confided in, by William duke of JSormandy, 



156 SCOTTON. 

that, after his victory over king Harold, he sent hini 
to subdue the northern parts of this realm ; and, re- 
warded him with no less than forty-three lordships, 
in the east and west ridings of Yorkshire, and fifty- one 
in the north riding of that county; whereof, the ma- 
nor and castle of Skelton, in Cleveland, were the 
capital of his barony. In the third of king Stephen, 
he and his son Adam, with all the force they could 
raise, joined the northern barons, at North- Allerton, 
against the king of Scotland; but, Robert having 
received gi^eat favors from that king, he, (with the 
assent of the english army,) had leave to go to him 
which he did, and endeavoured to dissuade him from 
battle; but, returning without success, immediate 
orders were given, for the onset ; and, both armies 
engaging, the scots were entirely defeated. He died 
6th Stephen, 1141. 

ScoTLANDus DE ScoTTON, gavc a carucate and 
a half of land, in Ripley, and Ulcotes, to the monkiJ 
of Fountains-abbey* 

Rodger de Scotton, gave all his lands, in the 
marsh of Scotton, to the said abbey. 

Ade de Scotton, temp. Hen. III. 

The family of Caperun, also resided here, temp. 
Hen. III., when Gilliam de Caperun, of Scotton^ 
married Alice, co-heiress of Ade de Scotton. 

Richard, son of William Caperun, married 
Alicia, heiress of Robert de Brereton, temp. Edward L 



SCOTTON* 157 

Henry, the forester of Scriven, married Alicia 
co-heiress of Richard Caperun de Scotton, temp. 
Edward II. 

In a controversy, between John, duke of Lancaster, 
commonly called John of Gaunt, on the one part, and 
William de Gargrave, and HykedondeSlingsby, who 
had married the two daughters and heiresses of Wil« 
liam de Nesfield,* on the other part; concerning the 
lordships of Brereton, Scotton, and Thorp : the 
duke claimed by purchase; and, the two heiresses, 
under an entail. This dispute was referred to the de- 
cision of twelve of the best knights and esquires, near- 
est Scotton, in the year 1287. 

In later times, this village became the residence of 
the Percys, and Pulleyns; whose mansions, still 
remaining, are converted into farm-houses. — Percy's,t 
is now the property of the rev. Willam Roundell, and 
retains many marks of antiquity about it-, in the hall, 
upon the ceiling, is the ancient arras of that renown- 
ed family, viz.,— A lion rampant, quartered with 
three lucies, or pike fish, hauriant— The crescent, 
also, appears in several places. The house^ where the 

♦ The chapel of St. Mary, in Scotton, was endowed by William de 
NesfieM, May 13, 1549. 

t The last of the Percys, of Scotton, was John, the son of Francis 
Percy, who left Scotton, and settled at Stubba Walden, ae«r Ponttfrac^ 
and wae living in 1665. 

o 



15$ t'ARNHAMr 

Pulleyns resided, is the property of sir Thomas 
Slingsby, bart. It is a very large building 5 but, hath 
undergone so thorough a repair, that, scarce any 
marks of antiquity remain about it 

The burying-ground, atScotton, was given, for the 
use of the people, called quakers, by William and 
Edward Watkinson, of Bradley, nearSkipton, in Cra- 
ven, anno I670. 

Here are three tomb-stones, with inscriptions, to 

the memories of Ann Watkinson, obit 1670. • 

George Watkinson, husband to the aforesaid Ann, 
obit 1670.— "William Watkinson, 1675. 

One mile from Scotton, is 

FARNHAM, 

A SMALL village. The church is a vicarage, and 
rated, in the king's books, at £6. 12$* Id.. It formerly 
belonged to the priory de Bello Valle, in the county 
of Lincoln. James Collins, and Robert Harvey, esqrs., 
are now patrons. It's present annual value, is £l5* 
Here are no monuments of ancient date, except two 
altar-tombs, in the church-yard ; one, inscribed to the 
memory of Nicholas Bickerdike, and, the other, to 
Jane, his wife ; date, 1684. This family were fofmer- 
ly lords of Burton-Leonard ; the last male heir, was 
Thomas Bickerdike, esq.j whose only daughter, and 



FARNHAM. ^ 159 

heiress, married Robert Harvey, esq., intheyearl787; 
by whom, he had issue, two sons, and one daughter; 
James, Beacham, and Eliza. 

^r;?25.— Or, on a saltire gules, a cinquefoil argent^ 
between four eaglets, displayed vert. 

Crest— ^w a wreath or, and gules, an eagle display- 
ed vert. 

The family of Walkingham, were anciently 
lords of this town; who bore, for their arms, — -Vaire^ 
two bars gules. 

Sir Alain de Walkingham, was living about 
the year 127S, whose sister, and sole heiress, married 
Thomas de Scriven. 

The family mansion was situated, in a valley, on the 
right of the road, leading from Farnham to Walk- 
ingham-Hill; the avenue, formed of two rows of 
aged oaks, through which the road led, from the foot 
of the hill to the house, is jet discernible. The 
traces of the foundations of the building, measure 
forty-six yards, in length; and, thirty- four, in depth. 
Two round heaps of ruins, (covered with grass and 
weeds,) seem to mark the sites of two circular 
towers, that included, betwixt them, the whole length 
of the front. The moat, that once surrounded this 
edifice, is remembered, by persons now living, to 
have been wide and deep. The chapel stood at 
O 2 



160 COPGROVE. 

some distance from the house, in a place still called 
** Chapel-Garth." The remains of the stables, and 
other offices 5 with the gardens, and fish-ponds, are 
very evident. 

In the year 1757, a copper-mine was opened, at 
Farnham; which, for want of proper management^ 
failed of success. 

About one mile and a half, from hence, is 

COPGROVE; 

The seat of Henry Buncombe, e«q., late mem- 
ber of parliament, for the county of York. The house 
stands on arising ground^ ifs south front, is ninety 
feet long ; over the entrance is a pediment, supported 
by four square pilasters. 

The Diiiing'Room 

Is thirty feet, by twenty; hung round with a great 
Tariety of fine prints, copied from the best masters. 
The chimney-piece is of excellent marble, and wefl 
finished. 

Drawing-Room ; 

Forty feeU by twenty. Here are the following 
pictures : An old man, with a book, a most capital pic- 
ture 5 three landscapes 5 three girls, playing with each_ 



COPGROVE. 161 

Qther ', three boys, playing with a dog •, two excellent 
pieces of ruins -, one large inlaid table, of all the spe- 
cimens of ancient and modern marbles; over the 
chimney-piece, is the figure of a small wild-boar, 
raising himself from the ground, well executed. A 
very fine bust of one of the daughters of the unfor- 
tunate Niobe : This elegant piece of sculpture, pur- 
chased at Rome, by mr. Weddel, was afterwards a 
present, from that gentleman, to mr. Buncombe. 

Billiard'Room ; 

Twenty-four feet square. Here Are four busts, 
4arge as life, Brutus, Milton, and Laurence 
Bellini, first physician to Cosmo HI., duke of Flo* 
rence, who died in the year 1703; and, sir George 
Savile, baronet. There are, also, several portraits, 
finished in a masterly manner, viz., W. Mason^ 
M. A.; sir Cecil Wray, bart.| William Wed- 
del, esq.; Charles Buncombe, esq.; JohnBal- 
TON, esq,, of Sleningford; John Grimston, esq.; 
and, John lord Muncaster. 

Library ; 

Twenty-five feet, by eighteeja. A handsome 
book-case, filled with a well-chosen collection of books, 
in elegant bindings. 

O S 



102 COPGROVE. 



Mr, Duncombe^s Lodging-Room : 

Over *he chimney-piece, is a portrait of Henry 
Slingsby, esq., of Slingsby-house, in the strand, 
and Kippax, in Yorkshire, master of the mint to 
Charles IL, only son of sir William Slingsbyj 
MR.DuNcoMBE, whcn a child, painted by his sisterj 
W. Mason, M. A.5 and, captain Dalton. 

Striped Lodging-'Room : 

Here are two very good landscapes; a group of 
wild-ducks; and, a fine pr;nt of sir George Sa- 

VILE, 

From most of the rooms, in this elegant mansion, 
is a pleasing prospect of the lawn, bounded by hilly 
grounds; on one side of which, a fine sheet of wa- 
ter, bordered with wood, winding out of sight, beyond 
a distant hill, adds greatly to the beauty of the scene. 

The Church 

Is a rectory, dedicated to St. Michael; whereof, 
Henry Duncombe, esq., is patron; it's clear yearly 
value, £ 1 20. Ob a brass plate, fixed against the wall, 
in the inside of the church, is an inscription in Latin, 
of which, the following is a translation : 

Her€ sleeps, in the Lord, John Wincupp late rector 



COPGROVE. 163 

of this church ; the services of •which, he faithfidly per* 
formedy for fifty four years: his disposition U' as friendly 
and hospitable^ to all ; but, his liberality to the poor ^ 
•was generous and diffusive, Agaifist no one did he ever 
commence a suit at law, nor did any person ever com^ 
wence a suit against him. His little habitation havbig 
flourished, under divine protection, for fifty -ttvo years f 
>with a 'wife, and family of six children : he xcas the 
first that was removed from thence, to the grave. His 
death happened on the SM day of July, 1637, in the 
86M year of his age. 

On a neat marble monument, fixed against the 
north wall, is inscribed : 

Sacred to the memory of the rev, Thomas Lamplugh, 
A, M,, rector of this parish ; prebendary of Wist oxv, in 
the cathedral of York ; lord of the manor of Lamplugh 
in Cumberland ; and, the last male-heir of the ancient 
family of Lafnplugh^'^^He "was the only son of the 
rev, Thomas Lamplugh, A, M,, formerly rector of 
Bolton-Percy, and one of the canons residentary of 
the said cathedral church, by Honor, his nife, the 
daughter of William Chaloner, of Guisborough, esq,. 
He married Mary, the daughter of mr, James Col- 
lins; and died, xvithoui issue, ^M of February, 1783, 
aged 55 years. 



164 BRERETON. 

At this village, is a cold-bath, which was formerly 
in great repute, and called St. Mongah's-well. Dr. 
Clayton, of Lancashire, wrote on it*s virtues and uses, 
in the year 1697. See an account of it, in sir John 
Floyer's " History of cold bathing," 

Before the conquest, Gospatric, a nothem 
nobleman, was lord of this village, where l>e had six 
carucates of land ; three of which, were arable. la 
the 20th of William L, Erneis de Burun, a nor- 
man, had this manor j whose servant, Tursten, held 
here one carucate, with one plough, and seven vil- 
leins. Here was, then, a church; and, the manor, a 
mile long, and half a mile broad, was, in the time 
of king Edward, valued at 20s. , but, at the above- 
mentioned time, only at l6s,'^Vide Doomsdai/ BooL 

Two miles from Copgrove, is 
BRERETON; 

The seat of a very ancient family, of that name^ 
who bore, for their arms, argent, two bars, sable. 

Robert, son of Simon de Brereton, lord of 
Brereton, married Helvesta, heiress of Thomas de 
Sawley, temp. Henry III. 

Richard de Brereton, and Alice, his wife, 
were benefactors to Fountains-abbe;^, The site of the 



NIDD, 163 

family mansion, with the remains of the moat, fish- 
ponds, and gardens, including several acreg, are yet 
discernible, in a field, called Hall-garth. 

Returning from Brcreton, and proceeding along 
the Ripley-road, observe, on the right, the village of 

NIDD,^ 

The seat of the ancient family of Trap pes ; who, 
it is probable, were originally french 5 and, took their 
name from their residence at the village of Trappes, 
in the province of Rouergue. 

Robert Trappes, citizen and goldsmith, of 
London, married, and had issue, Henry. He died 
in the year 1526; and, was buried in the parish 
church of st. Leonards. 

Henry, son and heir of Robert, married Anne, 
daughter and co-heiress of Robert Bymand, of 
Knaresbrough , in whose right, he was seized of lands, 
in Knaresbrough, Harrogate, and Nidd. 

Sir Francis Trappes Byrnand, knight, son 
and heir of Henry, married Mary, daughter of Ro- 
bert Atkinson, a bencher of Lincoln's-inn. 

Robert Trappes Byrnand, esq., son and heir 
^f sir Francis, married Eliza, daughter of nir. StephcM 

* Ne^dc, i« the name of a village, ia Brabwit,. 



166 RIPLEY. 

Taylor; from whom, is lineally descended, the present 
owner, Francis Michael Trappes, esq.; who 
married miss Lomax, only daughter of James Lomax, 
€sq., of Clayton-hall, in Lancashire; and, had is- 
sue, Francis, Robert, (Henry John), Michael, and 
Elizabeth. Arms* — ^Argent, three caltrops, sable. 

The church here, is a vicarage ; of which, the 
college of Ripon were anciently patrons ; it is now in 
the gift of the chancellor of the duchy of Lancaster 5 
and, it's present annual value, £65. 

One mile from Nidd, is 

RIPLEY: 

{Ripe-le^ ; i. e., a pasture, on the bank of a river.} 
Before the conquest, Ramchil, Archil, and Meriesuan, 
were lords here; and had, amongst them, fivecarucates 
of land; after that period, Ralph Paganel, a norman, 
held it of the king, for half a knighfs fee. It after- 
wards came into the possession of the ancient family of 
Ross; of whona, William de Ripley, held two parts of 
this manor, for half a knighf s fee. 

Sir Thomas de Ingilby, one of the justices of 
the common pleas, married Catherine, daughter and 

heiress of Ripley, of Ripley, esq., about the 

year 1378; by which marriage, this estate came to the 



RIPLEY. 167 

Ingilbys. He left several children ; from Nvhom, after 
a flourishing race of ance'stors, was descended. 

Sir William Ingilby^ knight, and baronet; so 
created. May 17, 1642. He married x\nne, daughter 
of sir James Bellingham, knight; and, had issue, fouF 
sons, and one daughter. 

Sir William, the second baronet, married Mar- 
garet, daughter of John Savile, of Methley, in York- 
shire, esq., (ancestor to the present earl of Mexborough 
of the kingdom of Ireland,) by whom he was father of 
sir John, his successor, and five daughters. 

Sir John, the third baronet, who married Mary, 
daughter of mr. Johnson, had issue, three sons and one 
daughter; and, was succeeded by his eldest son, 1741-2. 
Sir John, the fourth baronet, obit 1772, unmar- 
ried, whereby the title became extinct; but, was re- 
vived in the present baronet, by patent, dated March 
24, 1781, and, who was appointed high-sheriff of the 
county, in 1782. He married Elizabeth, daughter of 
sir Wharton Amcotts, baronet, member of parliament 
for East-Retford ; by whom, he had issue, four sons, 
and seven daughters ; sir William, Elizabeth, Augus- 
ta, Diana, Juha, Constance; now living — ^John, 
Vincent, Charles, (Anna Maria) Anne, died, S. P., 

Ripley Castle hath been much enlarged, by the 
fjresent baronet ; and, appears now, a spacious hospi- 
table mansion, embattled only for ornament ; except 
the lodge, and the great lower, which still retain their 



168 RIPLEY. 

originaltraces of caution, strength, and security. la 
one of the chambers of the tower, is the following sen- 
tence, carved on the frieze of the wainscot. 

** In the yeire of owre Ld. M.D.L.V., was this 
•* howse buyldyd, by sir Wyllyam Ingilby, knight; 
** Philip, and Marie, reigning that time/* 

The Vestibule, is elegantly finished with co- 
lumns, and pilasters, of the Doric order. 

The Dining-room, is twenty-eight i^tt^ by 
twenty- three. 

The Drawing-room, thirty feet, by twenty-four. 

The Breakfast-room, twenty-four feet, by six- 
teen. 

The Library, twenty-nine feet, by twenty-three. 

The best Lodging-room, is thirty iQet, by 
twenty-four, with a recess, and two fluted columns. 

The Nursery, is forty feet, by twenty; with a 
large window, from whence is a fine view of thepark^ 
and adjacent country. 

In the great staircase, is an elegant Venetian window; 
in the divisions of which, on stained glass, are a series 
of escutcheons, displaying the principal quarterings, 
and intermarriages of the Ingilby family, since their 
settling at Ripley, during a course of four hundred 
and thirty years, viz.. 

Sir Thomas Ingtlh^^ and Catharine. Ripley. 



RIPLEY. 169 

Thoma^lngilhy/i esq.f TLud Elenora MowdraJ/. 

John Tngi%y esq,^ and Elenora Rouclijffl 

Thomas Ingilby, esq.^ and Elena Holm. 

Walter Pedtvardine^ esq.., and Catharine Ingilit/.^ 

John Holmt esq., and Jennet Ingildt/.* 

Thomas de la River, esq.^ and Isabel Ingilhy,* 

Sir Williafn Ingilbi/, knight, and Joanna Stapilton* 

Thomas Beckwith, esq.f and Elizabeth Ingilby. 

John Ingilbt/f esq., and Margaret Strangeways^ 

John Suthill, esq., and Agnes Ingilby. 

William Arthington, esq., and Catharine Ingilby. 

Sir William Ingilby, ht, and Catharine Stillington* 

John Ingilby, esq., and Alenora Constable. 

Sir Robert Constable, and Jane Ingilby. 

Richard Goldesburgh, esq.,'^ 

Robert Warcup, esq., ^ Anna Ingilby. 

Thomas Wriothsley, esq.. ^ 

William Ingilby, esq., and Cecilia Talbois. 

Sir William Ingilby, knight, and Ann Malory. 

James Pullein, esq., and Frances Ingilby. 

Richard Maltus, and Elizabeth Ingilby.* 

John Ingilby, esq., and Ann Clapham. 

Thomas Ingilby, esq., and Alice ha^son* 

Sir John Gascoigne, knight, and Ann Ingilby.* 

Ralph Crestvell, esq., and Elizabeth Ingilby* 

John Ingilby, esq., and Isabel Townley, first ; 

Mary Lake, second.* 

Robert Killingbeck, and Anne Ingilby."^ 

♦ These names axe not inserted in Uie window, though they oiccur 
ia. Tboresby'a Ducat. Leod.. 

P 



170 RIPLEY. 

Richard S/ierburn^ esq., and Isabel Jwji%. 

Sir William Ingilbt/^ knight, and Ann Th'waifes, 

first ; 
Sir William Ingilhy, Jmight, and Catharine Smethc- 

ley, second. 
Sampson In gilby, esq,,* zndi J atie Lambert, -^ 
John Ingilby, esq,, and Catharine Bapthorpc, 
George Winter^ esq,, and Jane Ingilby, 
Thomas Markenfield, and Isabella Ingilby, 
JPeter York, esq., and Elizabeth Ingilby, 
Willia?n Byriiand, esq., and Grace Ingilby, 
Sir Peter Middletonf knight, and Maj^y Ingilby. 
Sir Robert Ilodson, knight, and Frances Ingilby. 
Robert Widdrington, esq,, and Ursula Ingilby. 
Sir William higilby, knight, and baronet, and,^??;? 

Bellingham. 
Francis Swale, esq,, -and Ann Ingilby. 
Francis Appleby, esq., and Catharine Ingilby, 
Sir William higilby, baronet, and Margaret Savile^ 
Sir John Ingilby, baronet, and Mary Johnson. 
Mark Shaftoe, esq,, and Margaret Ingilby. 
John Arden, esq,, and Ann Ingilby. 
Sir John Ingilby, baronet, and Elizabeth Amcotts* 

Arms. — Sable, and etoile of six rays, proper. 

• Sampson Ingilby, esq., was steward to the earl of Northumberland ; 
and, resided at Spofford manor, about the year I600. 
•t Thorcsby says^Elizabeth York, 



RIPLEY. 171 

Crest — On a wreath, a boarVhead, couped and 
erect, argent, armed or. Motto, — Mon Droit. 

After the battle of Marston, Cromwell, return- 
ing from the pursuit of a party of the royalists, pur- 
posed to stop at Ripley ; and, having an officer in his 
troop, a relation of sir William Ingilby's, that 
gentleman was sent, to announce his arrival. The 
officer was informed, by the porter, at the gate, that 
sir William was absent, but, that he might send any 
message he pleased, to his lady. Having sent in his 
name, and obtained an audience, he was answered, by 
the lady, that no such person should be admitted 
there; adding, she had force sufficient to defend her- 
self, and that house, against all rebels. The officer, 
on his part, represented the extreme folly of making 
any resistance ; and, that the safest way would be to 
admit the general peaceably. — After much persuasion, 
the lady took the advice of her kinsman, and received 
Cromwell, at the gate of the lodge, with a pair oi 
pistols stuck in her apron-strings 3 and, having told 
him, she expected that neither he nor his soldiers 
would behave improperly, led the way to the hall'; 
where, sitting each on a sopha, these two extraordinary 
personages, equally jealous of each other's intentions, 
passed the whole night. At his departure, in the morn- 
ing, the lady observed, — It was well he had behaved in 
so peaceable a manner ; for, that, had it been other wise* 
he would not bavc left that house with bjs life. 
P 2 



172 RIPLEY. 

SiRWitLiAM Ingilby WES amongst the number 
of those knights, and gentlemcD, who were obliged, by 
the parliament, to compound for their estates ; and 
paid^ for his composition, seven hundred and eighteen 
pounds* 

John Palliser> of Birsthwaite, held bis lands of 
the manor of Ripley, by the payment of a red-rose at 
midsummer, and, by carrying the boar's-head to the 
lord's table, all the twelve days of Christmas ; during 
which time, he was to have his horse and his hound 
kept, at Ripley-hall.* 

Here is a market on Monday ; and, the fairs are on 
Easter-Monday, and August 25, 20, 27» 

The Church 

Is a rectory, dedicated to All-Saints, of which, sir 
John Ingilby, bart., is patron 5 the present annual 
value of this living, is «£400. In the church-yard, is a 
very uncommon pedestal, of an ancient cross ; with 
eight niches, intended, probably, for kneeling in. 

In the south-aile, near Baynes' choir, supposed to 
)iave been saint John, the babtist's, chapel, is the 

* The boar's'head was a dish of feudal splendor, pftrticularly in Scot- 
land; where, it was sometimes surrounded with little banners, displaying 
the colors andaehieveme&ta of Uwbaroo, at whose board it was served* 



3!rEWT0N-HALL# 173 

tomb of SIR Thomas Ingilby, a justice of thecon*- 
raon-pleas, temp. Edward IlL 

In the nofth-aile, and near the patron's choir, is a 
tomb, supposed to be that of sir Thomas Ikgilby, 
the founder of the church j obit 1415. A pew now 
stands upon it. 

On the north side of the chancel, are two monu- 
ments, one for Elizabeth, Catharine, and Ma- 
ry Ingilby; and, the other, for sir John Ingilby, 
and his lady; he died, 1741-2. Near the commu- 
nion-table, are the monuments of Catharine 
Ingilby, 1500; John Ingilby, esq., 1502; sir 
William Ingilby, hart, 1682; sir William 
Ingilby, knight, 1C17; mr. Sykes; sir William 
Ingilby, knight, and his lady, 1640. 

Over the entrance into the free-school^^ is the fol- 
lowing inscription ; 

This school was builty hy Mary Ingilby , in the year 
1702; and endowed^ toithpartof the fortune of Catha- 
rine Ingilby ; being the two youngest daughters of sir 
William Ingilby, of Ripley, in the county of Yorkp 
baronets 

NEWTON-HALL, 

Near Ripley, formerly a seat of the ancient family 
P 3 



174 NEWTON-HALI- 

©f the Vavasours ; a branch of which, resided here, 
before the year 1570, and after the year 16 10. The 
situation is on a small eminence, commanding a fine 
■view of the surrounding country. Over the front 
floor, is a shield of arms, cut in stone ; containing 
those of Vavasour, Ingilby, and several others. The 
estate, consisting of 404 acres, was lately purchased 
l>y Matthew Thackwray, esq.* 




ALMI AS- CLIFF. ,17S 



STAGE I\^. 

Harrogate^ to AlmiaS'-Cliff. — -JJarewood:-^* 
Leeds.^Kirkstall'ahbey.^Wak€jield.^Sanr 
dal. — Pontefract. 



.LMIAS-CLIFF, i.e., Altar-Cliff'* a group of 
rocks, on a high hill, about five miles south-west of 
Harrogate, which appear, at a distance, like some 
stupendous fabric, tumbled into ruins. On the sum- 
mit of this enormous pile, are several basons, hollowed 
hi the stone ; one of which, is fourteen inches deep, 
and two feet four inches in diameter : near this bason, 
is a cavity, in the form of a parallelogram, or long 
square. 1 1 is the opinion of mr. Borlase, in his his- 
tory of Cornwall, that the Druids made choice of situa- 
tions like this, for the celebration of their religious 
rites ; and, believes the basons were formed, to receive 
the water which came from the clouds, as the purest 
of all fluids ; and, used by them, for the purposes of 
lustration, and purification.! The irregular ca- 

♦ ii/, a rock, orclifif; mias, an altar. Vide Shax»U Celtic dictionary, 
t It is very probable, that the vessel, called the holy water basor^ 
used in oiir ancient churclies, is derived from this origiat Sii ^OV^r's 
life of dkxandVt thcfifih bUhop of f^9m%% 



176 ALMIAS-CLIFF, 

vaties, mr. Borlase supposes, were to receive the 
bodies of children, for the cure of particular disor- 
ders. Into these basons, the country people herea- 
bouts, do frequently drop a pin 5 to which ceremonya 
they certainly ^nnex the idea of propitiation, as they 
confess, their motive is to obtain good fortune. The 
Druidical rites and ceremonies, in Britain, were (ac* 
cording to Tacitus,) abolished, in the time of*Nero; 
yet, such is the amazing power of superstition, that, 
we still find some shadowy traces of them remain here, 
and in many other places, after a period of near, two 
thousand years* 
->■>■'- 
On the- west «ide of the rock, is a fissure, called 
F A I R Y- P A R L o u R. This cavernous hole, which dips 
from north-west to n^rly south-east, has been explor- 
ed to a veiy great length, but, where it ends, is yet 
unknown. 

Near Fairy-parlour, are the remains of a rocking- 
stone 5 part of which, hath been evidently cut away, 
to prevent it's moving. 

In the valley below, are two upright stones ; the 
form of each, is t^^t of an irregular wedge, about twelve 
feet high, and both very much corroded by the wea- 
ther. The singular shape and position of these stones, 
have led gome to suppose they were rock-idols, in those 



ALMIAS-CLIFF. 177 

darV ages, when the rude britons bowed down to the 
spreading oak, and adored the massy column*. 

OssiAN thus describes a british prince, returning 
from his devotions. 

" Grumal was the chief of Cona. He sought the 
** battle, on every coast. His soul rejoiced in blood : 
** his ears, in the din of arms. He poured bis warriors 
" on Craca j Craca's king met him, returning from his 
*' GROVE : for then, within the circle of Bruno, he 
•* spake to the stone of power," 

The surrounding country, seen from this lofty hill, 
affords a prospect, scarcely to be equalled. On one 
side, are steril, and bleak mountains, covered with 
ling 5 on the other side, (making the contrast as great 
as possible) is a delightful view of Wharfdale, through 
which, that fine river rolls, in a broad and rapid 
stream. 

On the farther bank of the river, stands the ruins 
of Harewood-castle, the town, and church, 
with Harewood-house, the princely residence of 
Edward, lord Harewood 5 behind wliich, the hills of 
Derbyshire are seen, at the distance of sixty miles. 

» Hie canoas of king Edgar, (vlio died about the year 970) were 
67 in number ; the sixteenth of which, forbids the worship of trees, 
recks, foootain^ and o(ber reiaaiiung ritea, of pagan supersutioa* 



178 LITTLE ALMIAS-GLIFF, 

At the foot of Almias-ClifF, is a small village, 
called RIGTON, /.e., the town on the ridge. The 
manor-house stood at the east end of this village j 
the site of which, now only remains, including near 
an acre of ground, encompassed by a moat. 

The manor of Rigton, of which, this rock is the 
boundary, on one side, was granted, by Hugh de Lech- 
ley, to the monks of Fountains-abbey, with the ho- 
mages and services of all tenants, and their heirs, and 
all natives, i. e., slaves ; together with all their chattels, 
and the produce of them. On the dissolution of Foun- 
tains-abbey, this manor continued in the crown, till 
the year, 1556, when it was sold, to sir William Fair- 
fax, for ,£226 7s. 6d.. It continued in this family, 
till the year 1716, when it was sold, under a decree 
in chancery, to Robert Wilkes, esq.j from whom, it 
descended to his great grand-daughter, the only daugh- 
ter and heiress of Charlton Palmer, esq., of Becken- 
ham, in Kent, and lady of the rev. doctor Thomas 
Pollock, of whom it was purchased, by lord Harewood, 
in 1796. This manor was anciently esteemed, part of 
the forest of Knaresbrough, 

About three miles north-west of this place 5 and, on 
the summit of a hill, is 

LITTLE ALMIAS-CLIFF; 
Around which^ the far distant mountains, form a 



RUGEMONT. IIAREWOOD-HOUSE. 179 

\\ ide and solemn circle. Here are, also, several basons ; 
one of which, on the top of the highest rock, is nine- 
teen inches deep, and twenty-nine in diameter. 

Proceeding from hence, to Harewood-Bridge; 
at a small distance from which, are the remains of 

RUGEMOXT, 

. OijiGE the seat of the ancient family of D'Insul a ; 
situated on the northern bank of the river Wharfe, 
which here, b"y a fine and bold curve, forms a beau- 
tiful bay. The area, on which the mansion stood, is 
about eighty yards, by sixty, moated round; the 
offices, seem to have been at some distance ; and, the 
whole, to have taken up near four acres, encompassed 
by a rampart, in some places, eighteen feet broad. 
Sir John D' Insula, lord of Rugemont, was living in 
1253. In 1269, John, lord Lisle, of Rugemont, be- 
came possessed of Harewood, on the death of his 
relation, the countess of Lancaster. 

About two miles from Rugemont, is 

HARE WOOD - HOUSE, 

The seat of Edward, lord Harewood, so justly 
celebrated for it's grandeur, and magnificence, ^vas 
built by the late lord Harewood ; who laid the founda- 
tion, about the year 1 760. The length of the building, 
is 247 feet, 10 inches 3 and, the width, 89 feet. The 



180 IIAREWOO!> -HOUSE. 

fine stone, of which it is built, was dug from a quarry^ 
near the place. 

The lodge, into the park, is extremely handsome ; 
and, this noble house, on the outside, claims every 
merit of Corinthian architecture. 

There are 14 windows on a floor. The body is 
well proportioned, and joined by two superb wings. 

The south front, hath still superior excellence j 
and, it's apparent greater elevation, gives it more 
grandeur; for, the ground, which was originally a 
rough hill, is now sweetly sloped, with great art and 
judgment. The apartments are very numerous, and 
large, and finished in the highest taste of elegance and 
fashion. The ceilings are, many of them, richly 
ornamented with beautiful designs of Zucd, and 
others. 

All the rooms are equally elegant and costly, par-^ 
ticularly the state apartments ; but, the gallery and 
great drawing-room, present such a shew of magnifi- 
cence and art, as eye hath scarce seen, and words 
cannot describe ; the former, takes up the west wing, 
and is 77 feet, by 24 and a half, and 22 high. On 
one side, are four most superb plate-glasses, ten 
feet high ; also^ another of tjie same, over the chim- 



^AREWOOD-HOUSE. 181 

iiey-piece, and two large oval ones, in other places. 
The designs, on the ceiling, are admirably executed, 
by Rehecchiy and represent the seasons of the year; 
intermixed with figures, from the heathen mythology. 
The stucco work, is done by Rose^ and esteemed the 
first of it's kind. The great drawing-room is, also, as 
handsome, as designs and gilding can make it; here 
are seven elegant glasses, ornamented with festoons, 
particularly light and beautiful. 

Through every part of this princely mansion^ 
elegance and usefulness are evidently united; and, 
though nothing can exceed the work of the mason, 
the carver, the painter, and the upholsterer; it is, at 
the same time, a most complete and useful family 
residence.* 

The gardens and pleasure-grounds, (laid out by 
Brown) f are truly elegant; the former abound with 
every convenience for producing the finest fruits, 
flowers, and exotics; the pleasure-grounds are exten- 
sive, and admirably planned, with a charming piece 
of water to grace the whole ; shrubs, of every sort, 
are seen to flourish luxuriantly, which are judiciously 
mixed; and, it is pleasing to know, that where those 
shrub-girt walks now display such rich scenes of cul- 
tivation, was, a few years since, all common ploughed 
land. 

* Designed by Adanis and Carr, 

Q 



182 HAREWOOD-CHURCH. 

Near half a mile from the house, are the mane- 
GERiE, the FARM-YARD, WORKSHOPS for the diffe- 
rent artizans, anda variety of other offices; forming, 
altogether, an elegant little village. 

At a very small distance from the house, is 

HAREWOOD-CHURCH, 

A VERY ancient apd venerable pile, surrounded 
by a thick grove of trees, whose close embowering 
shade, is a pleasing addition to the solemnity of the 
place : it is a vicarage, dedicated to All-saints ; the 
first rector that occurs, is Robert de Clipstone, anno 
1275. John, lord L'isle, in the year 1350, 
founded a chantry, for six priests here j one of whom, 
in his proper habit, is depicted in the east- window of 
this church. In the choir, are six altar-tombs, of white 
marble ; on each are placed, fine whole length figures 
of some of the ancient owners of this manor : 

First, Tomb of sir William Gascoigne, of 
Gawthorpe, knight, chief justice of England; and 
Elizabeth, his wife, daughter and co-heiress of sir 
William Mov/bray, of Kirklington, knight. He 
died the 17th of December, 1429* Round the verge 
of this tomb, on a brass fillet, (torn away in the civil 
wars,) wa^ the following inscription : 

Hic JACET Willielmus Gascojgne, nuper 



HAPcEWOOD-CHURCir. 183 

CAPITALIS JUSTICAR DE BANCO HeNRICI, NUPER 

REGIS Anglic, et Eliza, uxor ejus qui qui- 

DEM WiLLlELMUS, OBIT t)IE DOMINICA 17MO 
DIE DeCEMBRIS, anno DOMINI 1429. 

This upright judge, being insulted on the bench, 
by the then prince of Wales, afterwards king 
Henry V., with equal intrepidity and coolness, com- 
mitted the prince to prison ; and, by this seasonable 
fortitude, laid the foundation of the future glory of 
that great monarch, who, from this event, dated his 
reformation. It is not well authenticated, that the 
prince struck sir William, as recorded by Shake- 
spear; but, all authors agree, that he interrupted the 
course of justice, to screen a profligate servant. Sir 
William equally shewed his integrity, and intre- 
pid spirit, in refusing the commands of his sove- 
reign, Henry IV., to try Richard Scroop, then 
archbishop of York, for high treason ; an office, which 
another judge assumed, and pursued to a fatal point 
for the prisoner. 

Secondf Tomb of sir Richard Redman, of 
Harewood- castle, knight j and his lady, Elizabeth, 
daughter of sir William A ld burgh, of Hare- 
wood: he died, in the reign of Henry VI.. On his 
helmet, is a horses' head, the crest of this family. 

Third, Tomb of sir William Ryther, ofRy- 
Q 2 



184 HAREWOOD-CHURCH* 

ther, knighf; and Sybil, his wife, the other daugh* 
ter of sir William Aldburghj he, also, died in the 
reign of Henry VI.. On his helmet, is the Rythe/s 
crest — a dragon* 

Fourth^ Tombo! sir Richard Redman, knight, 
grandson of sir Richard, before mentioned j and En- 
jZABETH, his wife, daughter of sir William Gascoigne, 
of Gawthorpe, knight. 

Fifth f This tomb, by the arms, (gules, a saltier- 
argent \ and, the crest, a bull's head,) appears to be for 
a Neville, probably sir John Neville, of Womer* 
sley, knight, who died 1482 j and, whose daughter and 
heiress, Joan, married sir William Gascoigne, 
knight. 

Siocthy This tomb is said to be that of sir Richard 
Franks, of the manor of Harewood. 

Seventhy A monument for sir Thomas Denison, 
knight, a judge in the king's bench, who died Sept. 
8, 1765; with a bust, and inscription, said to have 
been written by William, earl Mansfield, who was his 
particular friend. 

On the altar-rails, are carved the initials of the 
earl of Strafford's name; the only memorial of the 
Wentworth family, now remaining at Harewood. 



HAREWOOD-CASTLE. 185 

Testamentary burials^ in Harewood- church. 

Sir William Gascoigne, 1429 ^William 

Milner, 1 44 1 . John "Thwaits, 1 469- John 

York, vicar, 1490. Edward Redman, 1510. 

Sir William Gascoigne, knight, of Gawthorpe, 1541. 

W illiam Gascoigne, of Gawthorpe, 1567. • 

Percival Walker, vicar, 1567. William Tempest, 

1576. William Atherton, 1577. Matthew 

Mallory, of Dunswich, 1619- Brian Frank, 1626; 

HAREWOOD-CASTLE, 

Situated on the brow of a very high hill, above 
the river Wharfe ; from whence, is a very pleasing 
prospect of the beautiful vale, through which, that 
liver winds it's course. The grand portal is on the east 
side, and high enough for a man to enter on horseback t 
This entrance was defended by a large portcullis, the 
groove of which, is yet very evident. 

On the front of this portal, over the entrance, are 
three shields of arms, cut in the stone ; — that in the 
centre, is an orleforBALiOL; on each side, is a lion 
rampant, said to be the arms of ^sir William Ald- 
BURGH, with this motto, in saxo-monastic charac* 
ters: 

VAT SAL BE, SAL. 

Over this gateway, is a chamber, called the cha- 
Q3 



186 HAREWOOD-CASTIiE* 

pel j wherein, formerly, were twelve shields of aims, 
six of which, are only now discernible, ascribed to 
the families of Suttok; Aldburgh, Baliol, 
Thvveng, Aldburgh, impaling Sutton, ViPoNt. 

There appears to have been two large rooms, on 
the ground floor, divided by a strong partition-wall, 
in the middle of which, is an arched door-way, that 
communicated with both rooms. In the western wall 
of the first room, under a magnificent arch, is a tomb 5 
but, when erected, or to whose memory, i« now entire- 
ly forgotten. It seems to have been built with the wall ;. 
and, may probably contain the remains of the fouB^ 
der of this castle.. 

" What now avails, that o'er the vassal plain, 
" His rights, and rich demesnes^ extended wide? 

"That honor, and- her knights, compos'd his train, 
" And Chivalry stood,, mars-hall'd, by his side! 

** Tliough to thfe clouds his cactle seem'd to climb, 
*' And frown'd defiance on the desp'rate foe ,» 

*< Though deem'd invincible ; the conqueror, time, 
** LevelM tlie fabric, as the founder, low. 

<* yet. the hoar tyrant, though not mov'd to spare, 
" Helented, when he struck it's finish'd pride ; 

*And, partly the rude ravage to repair, 
** The tott-ring^towVs with twisted ivy ty'd." 

Ik. fach of the two to\^ers, on the somth side, were 
four apartments, one above another j and, in each,, 
were a window, and fire-glace. 



HAREWOOB-CASTLE. 187 

The extent of this castle, ^vhen entire, must have 
been very considerable; for, we now observe near 
an acre of ground, around the remaining building, 
covered with half-buried walls, and fragments of 
ruins. 

About half a mile west of the castle, and, in the 
centre of a thick wood, is an open space, of about 
one acre;* which hath been kept cleared of trees, 
from a very remote period. It has been supposed, that 
this was the place, where (about the year 963,) earl 
Athelwold fell a sacrifice to the resentment of his royal 
master, king Edgar. Seduced by the fascinating 
charms of the fair Elfrida,t he forgot his duty to his 
prince, his benefactor, and friend. Higden, in his 
Polichronicon, which ends about the year 1349, says, 
** The k)'nge had the erle with hym, for to hunt in the 
** wode of Werwelley,J that now is called Hoore 
** Wode.§ There the kynge smote him through, with a 
** shafte/' Rapin says, Athelwold was murdered in a 



* Called, at this day, Chesne^tain ; i. e., the plain in tlie wood, 

+ Elfirida founded three religious houses, for nuns; one oh tlie spot 
•where Athelwold was slain ; one in Wiltshire ; and, a third, in the 
county of Southampton, There is not, I believe, any place called Hareb* 
wood , in either of those couaties. 

J May not this be Wharfe- valley, now Wliarfedale. 
§ Harewood. 



188 HAREWOOB-CASTLE. 

wood, in Northumberland. — Yorkshire was, then, a 
part of the ancient Northumberland. 

About the time of the conquest. Tor, Sprat, 
and Grim, probably three danish chieftains, were 
possessed of ten carucates of land, in Harewood; five 
of which, were arable. Soon after that period, Ro - 
BERT DE RoMELi, became possessed of this castle 
and manor; whose only daughter, Cecily, marrying 
Ranulph de Meschines, earl of Chester, he became 
lord of Harewood; whose daughter, Avici, married 
William de Curcis, steward of the household to 
Henry L. 

To Avici de Romeli, succeeded William de 
Curcis, her son; whose only daughter, Alice, married 
Warine Fitzgerald, chamberlain to king John, lord 
(in her right) of this manor ; who obtained, of king 
John, a charter, for a fair and weekly market, here j 
he had an only daughter, Margery, his heiress, who 
married, first, Baldwin deRedvers, eldest son of Willi- 
am de Redvers, earl of Devonshire ; which Baldwin, 
died in his father's life-time. — Secondly, Fulk de Brent ; 
who, from residing in the Isle-of- Wight, where the 
family of Redvers had great possessions, was denomi- 
nated, De Insula, orL'isle; and, was ancestor of lord 
L'isle, of Rugemont. 

This lady, v/hen residing at Harewood, granted^ 



HAREWOOD-CASTLE. 189 

to the nuns of Arthington, the tithe of her household 
expences there. 

To Margery de Redvers, succeeded Bakhvin, 
earl of Devon, her son. He had issue, a daughter, 
Isabel, his heiress ; married to William de Fortibus, 
earl of Albemajle. 

William, earl of Albemarle, rebelled against 
Henry II., and manned his castles -, but, was over- 
powered, and forced to submit. He had one daugh- 
ter, sole heiress j married to Edmond Crouchback, 
earl of Lancaster, son of king Henry III.j who died, 
without issue, in the year 1269. Upon the death of 
his lady, Harewood descended to her relation, Ro- 
bert, lord L'isle, of Rugemont, grandson of Margery 
de Redvers, her great grand-mother by Fulk de Brent, 
her second husband, before-mentioned, 

Robert, lord L'isle, was succeeded by John, his 
son 5 who, in 1336, that he might be the better ena* 
bled to serve king Edward HI., in his wars, obtained 
from his father, a grant of this manor, of Harewood, 
then valued, at 400 marks, per annum. He died in 
the year 1356, being succeeded by his son and heir, 

Robert, lord L'isle, whose only daughter, 
Elizabeth, married to sir William Aldburgh, of Ald- 
burgh, in Richmondshire, see ms to have made Hare* 



190 HAREWOOD-CASTLE* 

wood his chief residence ; and, though there was a 
castle here, in very early times, prior to the reign of 
king John, yet, by the arms of the Aldburghs, cut in 
stone, over the principal entrance, and in several 
parts of the chapel, over the eastern portal, we may 
conclude, this sir William de Aldburgh erected the 
princpal part of the castle,* as it now stands, in the 
reign of Edward IIL. He had two daughters, his 
co-heiresses 5 Elizabeth, married, first, to sir Brian 
Stapleton, of Carlton j secondly, to sir Richard Red- 
man, of Redman, and Levens, in Westmorland, 
knights 5 and Sybil, to sir William Ryther, of Ryther, 
knight 5 between whom, all his estates were divided. 
The estates thus descending toco-heiresses, each family 
held them, in undivided moieties; but, the Redmans 
seem to have made the castle their principal residence, 
till the reign of queen Elizabeth, in whose 21st year, 
both these families disposed of their property here. 

The family of Gascoigne, of Gawthorpe, appear 
to have been the next owners of Harewood. William 
Gascoigne, knight, obtained a licence, to enclose two 
parks here; the first, to contain two hundred and 
forty acres of land, in Gawthorpe, Wardley, and 
Harewood ; the second, to contain seventeen hun- 
dred acres, in Henhouse, Lofthouse, Wardley, Hare- 
wood, and Wyke. 

« Mr. Camden passed through Yorkshire, about the year 158^; at 
which time, he observes, tliat this was a neat and strong castle. 



KAREWOOD-CASTLE. IQl 

William Gascoigne, esq., the last of this line, 
had an only daughter, Margaret, his heiress, married 
to Thomas Wentworth, of Wentworth Wood-house, 
esq. ; whose son, William, (father of Thomas, earl of 
Strafford), was seized of this, and several other ma- 
nors, in the neighbourhood. 

The unfortunate earl resided at Gawthorpe, during 
the gathering of that storm, which, at length, proved 
so fatal to him, as appears by several of his letters, 
dated from thence . His son, William, second earl of 
Strafford, sold this estate, during CromwelFs usurpa- 
tion ; and, also, that at Ledstone. It was customary, in 
those times, to keep copies of the purchase-deeds of 
lands sold; — on the back of those of Harewood, it is said, 
the earl made the following memorandum : ** I sold 
** this estate, for sixteen years' purchase, and vested 
*' the money in Irish lands, at four years' purchase.'* 
Harewood was afterwards purchased by sir John Cut^ 
ler, of penurious memory ; who resided at Gawthorpe- 
hall, having reduced the ancient castle of Harewood 
to ruin> for sake of the timber. 

Cutler saw tenants break, and houses fall; 

For very want, he could not build a wall. Pope, 

He left his estate to his only daughter, Elizabeth, 
countess of Radnor ; with remainder, in case of fai- 
lure of issue, to his relation, John Boulter, esq., who, 



192 HAREWOOD'-CASTLE* 

on her death, (I696) accordingly inherited it; and, 
of the heirs of this gentleman, it was purchased by 
Henry Lascelles, esq., father of Edwin, the late lord. 

There is a village, named Lassele, in the province 
of Touraine, in France , from whence, it is probable, 
this very ancient family may have derived their name— • 
Pi cot de Lascelles appears to have been amongst the 
gentlemen that composed the train of Alan, earl o^ 
Richmond,* at the time of the conquest ; and was, 
afterwards, lord of Scruton, near Bedale, in the north- 
riding of Yorkshire, f which he held of the said earl. 
The family had several other estates, in that part of 
the country, at an early period. Sir Rodger de Las- 
celles, of Sowerby, and Brackenburgh, knight, was 
summoned to parliament, 22nd of Edward I.; and, the 
following year, amongst the barons of the realm. Tho- 
mas Lascelles, esq., was high-sheriff of Yorkshire, 
S9th of queen Elizabeth. Sir Thomas Lascelles, 
knight, was one of the council to the presidency, at 
York, 41st of Elizabeth; Daniel Lascelles, esq., was 
high-sheriff, in 1719; Edwin, lord Harewood, advan- 
ced to the peerage, June 19th, 1790; Edward, lord 
Harewood, June 18, 1796. 

.4rw5.— Sable, a cross flory, or. 

♦ He "wag nephew to the conqueror, and commanded the rear-guard 
tf the army, at the battle of Hastings. 

t Glover's visitation of Yorkshire, ia l5Q%t 



LEEDS. 19S 

f:^.^^^.— Abears'-head, couped, and muzzled, gules. 
Supporters.^-'Tyfo hezrSf ermine j muzzle, collar, 
and chain of each, gules. 
Motto* — ** In solo Deo salus." 

Eight miles from Harewood, is 

LEEDS; 

A VERY ancient and populous town, situated on the 
river Aire.* Mr. Thoresby supposed the name of this 
town to be derived from the british, Cair Laid Coit'-^ 
A tov,m in a wood. Another learned antiquary 
believes it to have been, in very remote time, the 
property of some great man, whose name was Lede^ or 
Leod;\ and, that the villages of Ledsham, Ledstone, 
and Lede-hall, are all derived from the same origin; 
yet, when we find there is such a town as Leede, on 
the river Dender, in Austrian Flanders, and a vil- 
lage called Holbeck, not far from thence, we admit 
the probability of a town and village, in Yorkshire, 
being thus named, by some of our german ancestors, 
from that part of the countr}% 

In Leeds, 2oth of William I., Dbert de Lacy had 

♦ This river, -which receives it's name from Araf, (british) signifying 
How and easy, is styled, by Drayton, daughter of lofty Penigent. 

t Nazen Leod, a british chief, slain in a great battle against tlie sax* 
«Ds« Mumc, 

R 



194 LEEDS. 

ten carucatcs, and six oxgangs, of taxable land here; 
as much of which was arable, as was sufEcient for 
six ploughs. There was, in the whole district, at this 
time, twenty-seven villeins, and four sokemen, with 
fourteen ploughs, a church, and a mill; also, ten 
acres of meadow, valued at seven pounds, and four 
shillings. 

Here was a strong castle, probably built by Ilbert 
de Lacy, which was besieged by king Stephen, in the 
year 1139 j and, here the unhappy monarch, Richard 
IL, was confined, about the year 1399. The site of 
this fortress, of which there is not now any vestage 
remaining, is said to have been on a place, called 
** Mill-hill." The town was incorporated in the 2nd 
of Charles!.; and, had a considerable share in the 
troubles of that reign. 

On the 23d of January, 1643, sir Thomas Fairfax, 
with six troops of horse, three companies of dragoons, 
1000 musketeers, and 2000 club-men, marched out of 
Bradford, to attack this place ; and, advancing as far 
as Woodhouse-moor, sent and summoned sir William 
Savile to svirrender the town, for the use of the king, 
and parliament ; but, receiving an haughty answer, 
they advanced, with colors flying, to the south-west 
side of the town, and began the assault, which lasted 
for about two hours, when the garrison was beat from 
their out-works, and their cannoniers killed. Sir 



tEEDS. 19* 

Thomas Fairfax, with his brother, sir William Fairfax, 
sir Henry Fowlis, and captain Forbes, cut their way 
through all opposition, entering the town, sword in 
hand, followed by their dauntless troops, soon got 
possession of the place j where they found two brass 
cannons, good store of ammunition, with four pairs 
of coloi-s, and took 500 prisoners; amongst whom, 
were six officers. Sir William Savile fled ; and, by 
crossing the river, escaped being taken j serjeant 
major Beaumont, endeavouring to do the same, was 
drowned. The slain, on the side of the garrison, 
were 28; on that of the parliament, 12. This seems 
to have been the principal action, that happened here, 
during the civil wars of Charles I. ; though the town 
often changed it's masters, in those turbulent times. 

In June, 1753, much discontent arose, amongst the 
country- people, on account of the turnpike-act ; and, 
a large body of those infatuated men, assembled, 
broke down the gates, and pulled up the posts of se- 
veral bars, near Leeds, and elsewhere. Mr. Lascelles, 
afterwards lord Harewood, at the head of near 300 of 
his tenants and workmen, well armed, attacked the 
rioters, and took about 30 prisoners, of whom, ten 
were committed to York castle; three others were 
taken, and carried before the trustees of the turnpike, 
at the king's-arms inn, in Briggate ; when a body of 
near 500 men, assembled, and demanded the prisoners 
to be set at liberty. The riot-act was read, but no 
R 2 



190 XEEDS* 

regard paid to it by the mob, who proceeded to 
break the windows and shutters of the king's-arms 
inn; when the soldiers, who had been previously sent 
for, were ordered to fire, which was done, first with 
powder; but, not having the desired effect, they 
fired with ball; by which, eight were killed, and above 
40 wounded, when the mob immediately dispersed. 

The markets, which are on Tuesdays and Satur- 
days, are exceedingly well supplied with all sorts of 
provisions ; the shambles are, particularly, well stored j 
and, 500 horse-loads of apples have been counted here, 
in one day. The fairs are July 10 and 1 1, for horses, 
hardware, and toys ; and November 8 and 9, for horses, 
horned-cattle, hardware, and toys. 

In the year 1798, the river Aire was made navi- 
gable to this town, which has now a communication 
with the rivers Mersey, Dee, Ribble, Ouse, Trent, 
Derwent, Severn, Humber, Avon, &c.. This in- 
land navigation, including ifs windings, extends 
above 500 miles, in the counties of Lincoln, Notting- 
ham, Lancaster, Westmorland, Chester, Stafford, 
Warwich, Leicester, Oxford, Worcester, &c., &c.» 

The woollen manufactory has flourished here, for 
many ages. The market, for cloth, was held in Brig- 
gate, till about the j^ear 1758, when a most extensive 
building was erected, by voluntary subscription, called 



LEEDS. 197 

77ie mixed Cloth^Hall, 

Consisting of a main body, and two Vmgs; 
lighted by a great number of the largest sash-windows 
that are any where to be seen j the colors of the cloth, 
being, by this means, as distinguishable as in the open 
air. The markets are held Tuesdays and Saturdays; 
and, begin at nine o'clock, in summer, and ten, in 
winter ; when all the six streets, (as they are called) in 
this hall, are filled with cloth, to a prodigious amount. 

The White Cloth - Hall: 

A LOFTY and spacious building; over one part 
of. which, is a very elegant assembly-room, in the 
jnodem taste, with card and tea-rooms, neatly finish- 
ed. 

The Guild, or Moot-Hall : 

The front of which, is built on arches, and adorned 
■with a fine statue of queen Anne, by Carpenter^ of 
London, placed in a niche; under which, are the arms 
of the town, supported by two owls, in memory of sir 
John Savile,* the first honorary alderman of this 
corporation. 

The general Infirmary : 

The first stone of this noble edifice, was laid by 
Edwin Lascelles, esq., afterwards lord Harewood, 
September 10, 1768; in the presence of the mayor, 

♦ The arjns of Savile, ar«^argent, on a bend sable, 3 owkof the field* 

R 3 



198 LEEDS. 

aldermen, recorder, &c.. This humane design waa 
begun by subscription, and hath, ever since, been well 
supported ; it is of exceeding great use, in relieving 
numbers of the diseased poor. The length of the 
building, is 150 feet; width, 3S. The court is 18d 
feet, by 30. The back-court, w^ith offices and gardens, 
186 feet, by 120. 

St Pete/s Church 

Is the parish- church, built in the form of a cross ; 
with a tower, rising from the middle. In the ceiling,. 
is the ascension of our Saviour, finely painted in 
fresco, by Parmentier. It is a vicarage ; and, the pa- 
tronage is vested in S5 trustees. 

St JohrHs Church 

Was finished in the year 1634, at the sole expence 
of mr. John Harrison ; and is a curacy, in the patron- 
age of the mayor, the vicar, and three senior aldermen. 

Trinity Church, 

A VERY elegant structure, is a curacy, in the pa- 
tronage of the recorder, vicar, and minister of saint 
John's. 

St. PauVs Church ; 

Founded by the rev. Miles Atkinson, about the 
year 1793. 

Here are, also, nine meeting-houses, of diiferent 



HEDDINGLEY, §" KIRKSTALL. 1^ 

denominations; two baptists, one sandimonian, one 
quaker, four dissenting chapels, and one methodist. 
There are, besides, in this parish, eight chapels. 
The population of this borough, was, in the year 
1801, as follows :— houses, 6,882; inhabitants, 30,669. 

About two miles from Leeds, is a village, called 

HEDDINGLEY; 

Where, it is supposed, the oak stood, from whence^ 
this wapentake is denominated Skirack, q. d., Shire- 
Oak ; where the people met, at stated times, to choose 
their reve, or under-sheriff for the district; and, 
where causes were tried, and appeals made from 
thence, to the riding; and, from thence, to the coun- 
ty. This, also, was the place of general rendezvous, 
in all times of public danger* In the year 1322> 
king Edward II., being at York, issued out commissi- 
ons of array ; one of which, was directed to Adam 
de Swillington, and William de Stargill ; commanding^ 
them to raise all the defencible men, in this wapen- 
take, between the ages of l6and60; each man, to 
be duly arrayed, and led to the king ; with whom, they 
were to march against the scots* 

Three miles from Leeds, on the right of the road, 
from thence to Bradford, are the ruins of 

KIRKSTALL-ABBEY; 

A STATELY gothic building, situated in a beami^ 



§00 KIRKSTALL-ABBEY* 

ful vale, watered by the river Aire. It was of the Cis- 
tercian order ; founded by Henry de Lacy, in 1157- 
and valued, at the dissolution, at 32^1. 2s. lid.. The 
gateway is walled up, and converted into a farm-house : 
The abbot's palace, was on the south. The middle, 
north, and south ailes of the church, remain, with nine 
pillars on each side -, but, the roof of the middle aile 
is gone. Here are places for six altars, three on each 
side the high altar, as appears by the distinct chapels f 
hut, to what saints dedicated, it is not easy, at this tfme, 
to discover. The length of the church, from east to 
west, is 224 feet ; the transept, from north to south, is 
118 feet. At the west end, is a turret, with steps lead- 
ing to the roof of the south aile, over-grown with grass. 
The tower, built about the time of Henry VIII., re- 
mained entire, till the 27th of January, 1779» when 
three sides of it were blown down 5 and, only the south 
side remains. Part of an arched chamber, leading 
to the cemetery 5 and, part of the dormitory, still re*- 
main. 

There is not a single monument in this church; 
and, it is worthy of remark, that it does not stand 
due east and west. Many of the mouldering walls are 
over-shadowed with trees, and mantled with ivy ; which 
adds, in a high degree, to the solemnity of the scenjE» 

Ahhots of KirhstalL 

Elected. 

1, Alexander 115^ 



KIRKSTALL-ABEEY. 201 

2, Ralph Hageth 1182. 

S, Lambert 1191. 

4, Turgesius . 

5, Heylas 1209- 

6, Ralph de Newcastle . 

7, Walter . 

8, Mauricius , 1221. 

0, Adam : 1249- 

10, HughMickelay 1259- 

11, Simon 1262. 

12, William de Ledes 1269. 

13, Gilbert de Cotles 1275. 

14, Henry Car 1280. 

Idy Hugh de Grymston 1284. 

16, Joseph, or John de Birdsall . ' 

17, Walter 1313. 

18, William 1341. 

19, Roger de Ledes 1349^ 

20, John de Bard 1399- 

21, William Grayson — . 

22, Thomas Wymbersley .... 1468. 

23, Robert Kelingbeck 1499- 

24, William Stockdale 1501. 

25, William Marshall 1509. 

26, John Ripley, 1528, the last abbot, surren- 
dered this abbey, November 22, A. D. 1540; and, 
the site was granted to Thomas Cranmer, archbishop 
of Canterbury, 



202 WAKEFIELD, 

The duke of Montague, is the present owner. 
The arms of this abbey, were, — azure, three swordSf 
their points, in base j hilts and pomels, or. 

Eight miles from Leeds, is 

WAKEFIELD 

A well-built populous town. In the market-place, 
is a beautiful cross, being on an open colonade, of 
the doric order, supporting a dome, with a lantern 
at the top ; under which, is a room, where the public 
business is transacted. The church, which was re- 
paired in 1724, is a large, lofty, gothic structure* 
with a spire, one of the highest in the county. At 
the bottom of the principal street, (Westgate) is the 
prison, which has lately been divided into 150 cells* 

In 1698, the Calder was made navigable hither, from 
Castlefordj and, by an act of parliament, 1760, ifs 
navigation is continued from hence, to Elland, and 
Halifax. Great quantities of coals are carried, by 
water, from hence, as well as Leeds, into the Ouse; 
and then, either go up the river, to York, or down to 
the Humber; supplying abundance of towns, with 
that commodity , and, saving them the duty of 4s. 
per chaldron, which is paid for the coals of Newcas- 
tle. The market, is on Fridays ; fairs, July 4, and 5, 
for horses and hardware j November 11, and 12, for 
horses and horned cattle. 



SANDAL-CASTLE. 203 

Here is a fine bridge, over the C alder; on which, 
is an ancient chapel, ten yards long, and six wide : 
The west front, is divided into compartments, with 
arches, in relief, their spandrils richly flowered ^ and, 
over each compartment, five shorter ones, with histo- 
rical reliefs ; which may allude to the occasion of erect- 
ing the chapel : The first is broken ; in the second, is 
a woman reclined, lamenting; a youth, at her hetp 
sits wringing his hands; in the third, two youihs 
kneeled, praying by the side of a woman, in the same 
attitude; in the fourth, a group of figures obscure; in 
the fifth, a man sitting, another standing before him ; 
and, an embattled building. The buttresses, are 
beautifully carved, and each crowned with arich/)/;?/- 
aL The north and south windows, have rich tracery. 
This chapel stands partly on the bridge, and partly on 
the sterlings ; and, was lately a warehouse, for hemp ; 
it has been converted to various purposes, which hath, 
of late years, much damaged it. It is said to have 
been built by Edward IV., in memory of his father 
and brother, who were slain at the battle of Wakefield. 

KoT far from Wakefield, are the remains of 

SANDAL-CASTLE; 
Built, in the reign of Edward IL, by John Plan- 
tagenet, earl of Warren; where that nobleman resid- 
ed, along with the lady of the unfortunate Thomas, 
earl of Lancaster, about the year 1320. In an affray, 
concerning this lady, between the retainers of Lancas* 



904 SANDAL-CASTLE. 

ter, and Warren, commenced that fatal tragedy; ia 
"which, sir John Elland, of Elland*, and so many other 
gentlemen, lost their lives. 

In the reign of Edward IIL, Edward Baliol resided 
here, while an army was raising, to establish him in 
Scotland. This castle, afterwards became the pro- 
perty of Richard Plantagenet, duke of York ; "whot 
having laid claim to the cro^vn, raised an army, to 
support that claim ; and, appointed this castle, as the 
place of general rendezvous ; to which, he repaired, 
with a small body of troops, ordering his son, the earl 
of March, to follow him with the rest. Queen Mar- 
garet, having intelligence of this, advanced, with an 
army of 18,000 men, up to the castle walls : The 
duke, elated with his former success, though he had 
but 5,000 men, marched out j and, falling into an 
ambuscade, was slain, with near 3,000 of his men. 

•* Where York himself, before his castle gate, 
" Mangled with wounds, on his own earth, lay dead; 

" Upon whose body, Ciiflford down him sate, 
** Stabbing the corpse, and cutting off his head, 

*' Crowned it with paper ; and, to wreake his teene, 

** Presents it so, to his victorious queene." 

** Where th' earle of Rutland, the duke's youngest son, 

** Then in his childhood, and of tender age, 
«* Coming, in hopes to see the battaile won ; 

** Ciiflford, whose wrath no rigour could aswage, 
« Takes; and, whilst there he doth for mercy kneel, 
« In bis soft bosom sheaths his sharpen'd steel." 

VraytorCs "Queen MargariteJ* 



SANDAL-CASTLE. 205 

The spot where he fell, was enclosed with a triangular 
wall, including about a rood of ground ; afterwards, 
converted into a garden, the owners being obliged to 
keep it enclosed. A large stone cross, raised on it, 
was demolished in the civil wars. Here was found a 
large gold ring, ( supposed to have belonged to the 
duke,) and given to mr. Thoresby ; on the sale of whose 
museum, mr. Bartlet, who remembered the finding of 
it, bought it, for two guineas -.-—Within, is engraven, 
POUR BON amour; and, on the broad outside, are 
three saints.* Richard lU., is said to have resided in 
Sandal-castle, sometime after his accession to the 
throne. Here was a garrison for the king, in the civil 
wars of Charles Lj which surrendered, after three weeks' 
siege, to colonel Overton, in the month of October* 
1645, on the following conditions ; 

The governor, colonel Bonivant, and twelve offi- 
cers, to march out of Sandai-castle, with their horses, 
and swords ; and, to carry with them, each a spare 
suit of clothes : The said govenior, and officers, to 
have a convoy, to Wellbeck-house ; and, to return 
the Jiorses, by the said convoy. The rest of the sol- 
diers, to depart only with their clothes on their backs, 
and staves in their hands : All the ammunition, stores, 
and provisions, to be left to colonel Overton. In 1646, 



♦ The remjuns of the duke and his son, were interred, first at ?o«- 
l^fact; and, afterw^U'ds removed to the castle of Fotheringhdy. 

s 



Q06 POKTEFRACTf 

this castle was demolished, by order of parliament* 

About nine miles from Wakefield, is 

PONTEFRACT; 

Situated near the conflux of the rivers Aire, and 
Don, was given, with the land about it, by William the 
conqueror, to Ilbert de Lacy, a norman, after having 
dispossessed Alric, a saxon; and, here Ilbert built 
the castle, which was not only a strong fortress, but 
a princely palace. In this family it continued, till the 
6th of Edward II. j when it devolved to Thomas, earl 
of Lancaster, in right of Alice, his wife^ daughter, 
and sole heiress of Henry Lacy, earl of Lincoln. 
In 1321, the said earl being taken in arms against 
the king, was, in this his own castle, condemned by 
his nephew, Edward II., and beheaded j with many 
more noblemen, his adherents. Here, also, in the year 
1400, Richard 11. , after being cruelly used, was, in 
some manner or other, assassinated. The duke of 
Orleans, one of the illustrious prisoners, taken by 
Henry V., at the memorable battle of Agincourt, 
•Was sent to this castle, in the year 1416. Here, in the 
year 1461, the innocent Anthony, earl of Rivers, 
Richard, lord Grey, sir Thomas Vaughan, and sir 
Richard Hawse, were all murdered, by the tyrannic 
order of Richard III.. 

Ax .the commencement of the civil wars of Charles 



PONTEFRACT* 207 

I., this castle was a garrison for the king. Colonel, 
sir Henry Slingsby, observes, — that, during the siege 
of York, the garrison, in that city, frequently made 
signals, by lighting fires on the towers of the Cathedral 5 
which were answered, by similar fires, from the tow- 
ers of Pontefract-castle. The same gentleman, being 
in this castle, about the latter end of the year 1644, 
mentions, — that, sir John Redman was then govern- 
or; and, that the garrison consisted of 300 soldiers, 
and 80 officers ; besides, a number of gentlemen vo- 
lunteers, with their servants. 

About the beginning of the year 1645, lord Fair- 
fax took possession of the town of Pontefract; and 
blocked up the castle so effectually, as to cut off all 
communication betwixt the garrison and the country. 
During the blockade, as sir Thomas Fairfax, and 
colonel Forbes, were standing conversing together, 
a cannon-shot, from the castle, passed betwixt them, 
the wind of which, cast them both to the ground; 
colonel Forbes lost one eye, by the accident; but, 
sir Thomas recei ved no material i nj ury . On the 2 1 st 
of July, the garrison surrendered, on conditions ; eight 
pieces of ordnance, and a large quantity of stores, be- 
ing delivered up to his lordship. The castle remained 
a garrison, for the parliament, till about midsummer, 
1V$47 ; when it was retaken, by stratagem : Twenty 
gentlemen, disguised like farmers' servants, with arms 
concealed under their frocks, brought a quantity of 



208 PONTEFRACT. 

com, in several carts 3 pretending, it was a supply for 
the garrison : when, being admitted, they suddenly 
seized upon the main-guard, some of whom they had 
corrupted 5 and, another party of their friends, who 
had laid in ambush, rushing in at the same time, they 
were, in a few minutes, masters of the place. 

The cavaliers having once more possession of this 
important fortress, the garrison soon became more for- 
midable than it had ever been ; and, made frequent 
sallies into the country, far and wide, in one of 
which, they were intercepted, by colonel Rossiter, 
who routed the whole party, consisting of 1 ,000 horse, 
took the commander in chief, with all his officers^ 
hag, and baggage. 

Soon after this event, another sally was made in 
the night, by 40 horse, towards Doncaster, where co* 
lonel Rainsborough lay, with a large body of troops. 
Having secured the guard, at the end of the town, 
three of them rode on to colonel Rainsborough's quar- 
ters, for whom they pretended they had dispatches ; 
being admitted, they informed him he was their pri- 
soner, and must go along with them ; and, that the 
smallest resistance, on his part, would be fatal to him : 
Endeavouring to resist, occasioned his death 5 and the 
three desperadoes returned, in safety, to their com- 
rades, notwithstanding the town was full of soldiers.^ 



PONTEFRACT. 20& 

This daring outrage, determined the parliament on the 
immediate reduction of the placej and, accordingly, 
a large body of troops, with every requisite for a 
siege, were ordered for the service, under the com- 
mand of general Lambert, early in December, 1647* 
The garrison held out, with the most determined reso- 
lution 5 and, on hearing of the king's death, they made 
a most desperate sally ; but were, at length, drivea 
back, with considerable loss. Wearied out, at lengthy 
and seeing now no prospect of relief, the garrison of- 
fered to treat, for the delivery of the castle : The 
general returned for answer, that his orders were such, 
as obliged him to require, that colonel Morris, and five 
of the party, concerned in the expedition to Doncaster, 
should be delivered up ; as to the rest, they might re- 
tire, secure and unmolested, to their own houses. 
The besieged, acknowledged his civilityj but, de- 
clared, while they had arms in their hands, they could 
not think of delivering up their companions, and 
desired six days, in which the proscribed persons 
might endeavour to escape ^ and, in which endeavour, 
it should also be lawful for the rest to assist them* 
To this, the general consented; en condition, that the 
place should be surrendered, at the expiration of the 
time. In the interval, several sallies were attempted, 
and various stratagems used, to favor the intended 
escape ; which so far succeeded, though one fell in the 
attempt, three got clear away : There still remained, 
two of those proscribed men \ and, the time being: 
S3' 



210 PONTEFRACT. 

nearly expired, they had recourse to an expedient^ 
that seemed to flatter them with the hope of succeed- 
ing, in saving them also ; and that was, by inclosing 
them, with one month's provisions, in one of those 
secret cells, with which most of our ancient castles 
were provided ; and, which were made use of, as re- 
positories for valuables ; and, also, as asylums in the 
moment of danger. This done, the whole garrison 
put on a semblance of rejoicing, for the escape of 
their companions ; and, at the hour appointed, sur- 
rendered the castle, with two month's provisions, and 
40 barrels of powder, to general Lambert; who, 
not believing that any of the offenders had escaped^ 
gave orders for a strict examination of the troops, as 
they marched out of the gate. A few days after the 
smTcnder, the two prisoners left their concealment^ 
and made their escape*. 

By a resolution of parliament, March 27, 1649» 
this fortress, which had held out longer than any 
other garrison in England, was ordered to be disman- 
tled. — All the ammunition being first removed, con- 
veyed to York, and lodged in CliifordV tower; a great 
number of people were employed, with pick-axes^ 
iron-crows, spades, and shovels, to demolish this 
jpioble fortress, which they fully accomplished in about 
ten weeks ; the charge of which, amounted to the^ 

* Colonel Morris was afterwards taken, aud executed at York. 



PONTEFRACT. 211 

sum of 7771. 4s. 6d., an enormous sum in those days. 

Moneys received for the materials : 

Lead 1540 : 7 : 2 

Timber ... 201 : 7 : 1 

Iron 37 : 2 : 4 

Glass .... 1:0:0 



1779 : 16 : 7 



Some fragments of mouldering ruins, mark the 
place, where this strong castle stood 5 which, like 
manv other similar remains, scattered over the face 
of this countrvi serve to show the infelicity of for- 
mer ages, when cruel domestic wars convulsed and 
desolated the land. 

The borough of Pontefract was incorporated by 
king Richai'd III.j and is governed by a mayor, a 
recorder, and twelve aldermen. The arms of the 
town, are, — sable, a quadrangular tower, with four 
towers in perspective, argent ; masoned, proper. The 
market is on Saturdays : Fairs, the first Saturday in 
December; the first Saturday after the twentieth day 
from Christmas i the first Saturday after February 
thirteenth ; the first Saturday after September twelvth ; 
also, the Saturday before Palm-sunday, Low-sunday, 
and Trinity-sundayj and the fortnight-fairs, always 



212 PONTEFRACT, 

the Saturday next after York fortnight^fairs. The 
great show of horses, begins the fifth of February. 
This borough sent members to parliament, the ^Sd 
and 26th of Edward L; and, ceased sending, till it was 
restored by king James 1. 5 when George Skillet, esq.^ 
and Edmond Sandys, jun., esq., were chosen. 

The old church of All-hallows, was so much da- 
maged, during the siege of the castle, that, the inha- 
bitants have ever since assembled, for the celebratioa 
of divine service, in the chapel of saint Giles, former- 
ly called, "The chapel in the wood ^ a large and spa- 
cious building 3 which is now, by act of parliament^ 
made the parish-church. This town, and neighbour- 
hood, have been long noted for the produce of excel- 
knt liquorice. 




nipoN. 218 



STAGE V. 

Harrogate to Ripon. — Studley^-^Hachfalh''^ 
Tanfield. 

RIPOM. 

JLn the west-riding, and ^vapentake of Claro, 219 
miles south-west from London ; and 23 miles north- 
west from York ; pleasantl}' situated between the river 
Eure, on the north, and the brook, called Skell, on 
the south 5 over which, are six stone bridges, erected 
in different places. It is a place of great antiquity j 
it's name obviously derived from ifs situation on the 
bank of a river.* The market-place is a beautiful 
square j in the middle of which, was erected, anno 
1785, a column of stone, 82 feet high, in imitation of 
the ancient obelisks. On the top, are fixed the arms of 
the town, viz., a bugle-horn, a spur- rowell, and fleur- 
de-lis. Erecting this column, and paving the market- 
place, atthe same time, amounted to the sum of 564l. 
lis. 9d.; done at the sole expence of the late William 
Aislabie, esq., of Studley, who represented this ba- 

* JtifC, The bank of a river* 



S14 RlPOIf. 

rough in parliament, 6o years. Here is a very gooci 
market on Thursdays 5 and, the following fairs :— The 
firstThursdayafterthee4th of Januarys May 12, and 
13 5 the first Thursday and Friday in June ; November 
S, and November 22 5 a fortnight fair, for cattle and 
sheep, commences the Thursday before the fair in Ja- 
nuary, and ends the Thursday before May the 12th. 

In the year 66 1, Eata, abbot of Melross, founded 
a monastery here j at which time, the town consisted 
of SO houses. In the year 676, Wilfrid, archbishop 
of York, expelled the scot's clergy from Ripon; and, 
here that prelate entertained Egfrid, king of North- 
umberland, with his whole court, in the year 67 8» 
The monastery was situated betwixt Stammergate, and 
Priest-lane 5 and, probably was rebuilt by Wilfrid, 
who had been accustomed to the pomp and splendor 
of the Italians, during his residence at Rome : His build- 
ings, were palaces j his furniture, exceeding sumptu- 
ous; his table was served in gold plate; his equipage 
shone in the richest apparel ; he had an army of at- 
tendants, well provided with horses, and warlike ac- 
coutrements ; he amassed immense wealth, and every 
thing about him was magnificent. Many persons^ 
who had been edified by the humility and simplicity 
of the scof s clergy, took a distaste at the pomp and 
grandeur of Wilfrid ; which, in time, drew on him 
that resentment of the archbishop ©f Canterbury, and 
jealousy of the king, which qnded in his exilQ; a»^ 



RIPOIT. 915 

after an absence of ten years, he, with great difficulty, 
obtained leave to return to his see. He died at Oundle, 
in Northamptonshire, October 19, anno 711, aged 
76; and, wasburriedin the monastery, at Ripon, with 
great solemnity, and funeral pomp, whidi is described, 
as follows, by Eddius, in his life of that prelate ; " The 
** body being laid on the ground, upon a surplice, 
** and washed by the abbot of Ripon, and the monks, 
** with their own hands ; it was afterwards dressed in 
*' the pontifical robes, and carried, in a solemn man- 
** ner, towards the place appointed for his burial, with 
^ music, and singing of psalms : They had not pro- 
*'ceeded far, in this manner, before they stopped 
** again, and set down the corpse ; over which, they 
*' pitched a tent, and, having uncloathed it, bathed 
^ it, a second time, in pure water ; and, then dressed 
** it in robes of fine linen, placed it upon a hearse, 
*'and proceeded towards the monastery of Ripon, 
** singing psalms, as before. As they approached the 
** monastery, all the monks came out to meet it, bearing 
*' the holy relics ; and, raising their voices, joined the 
*' rest of the company in psalms and hymns, that they 
*' were singing; and, in that manner, was the corpse 
** conducted into the body of the church, and there 
^'deposited. Two hundred and twenty-nine years 
«* afterwards, q, d,f in the year 940, his remains were 
*^ removed from hence, to Canterbury, by Odo, the 
** archbishop." 



€16 RIPOiT. 

The great feast held at this town, annually, on the 
£rst Sunday after Lammas-day, old style 5 and called, 
saint Wilfrid's feast, seems to be in commemoration 
of that prelate's return from exile. On the evening 
before the feast commences, the effigy of this favorite 
of the people, being previously conveyed some miles 
out of town, makes his public entry, as returning 
after a long absence -, being met by crowds of people, 
•who, with shouts and acclamations, welcome the 
return of their prelate and patron. 

In the year 886, this town was incorporated, by king 
Alfred 5 and, it's chief magistrate, styled Vzgilarius, or 
Wak€77ianf who caused a horn to be blown, every night, 
at nine o'clock 5 and, if any house or shop was broke 
oj^n or robbed, between that time and sun-rising, the 
loss was to be made good by the town ; for which se- 
curity, each householder paid four-pence a year j or, 
if he had a back-door, into another street, eight-pence. 
The horn is still blown, though the tax, and the be- 
nefits arising from it, are discontinued. 

In the year 924, the manor of Ripon was given, by 
king Athelstan, to Wolston, archbishop of York, and 
his successors, where they had a palace 3 and, where 
they sometimes resided. To this palace, belonged 
a noble park, situated near the town. The same king, 
granted to the church of Ripon, the privilege of 
sanctuary, with this extraordinary sanction j that, who- 



RIPON. 217 

ever broke those rights, which extended a mile on 
cither side of the church, should forfeit life and estate j 
so, that the church, the town, and a circle of two 
miles diameter, were a refuge for all that fled to them ; 
where they lived safe, from all manner of molests^ 
ation ; even from the king, his laws, or any person 
whatsoever.* 

The boundary of the sanctuary, yet remaining, is 
marked by crosses, a mile distant from the church. 
One is called, Kangel-cross, 2.e., Archangel-cross; 
and another, Sharow-cross ; the third was called, 
Athels tan-cross. 

In the year 950, this town and monastery were 
burnt, by the danes. The monastery was after\vards 
rebuilt, by Odo, archbishop of Canterbury. 

In the year 1085, 20th of WiUiam I,t Thomas, 
archbishop of York, held this manor, including the 
mile of saint Wilfrid, in demesne: Here he had, then, 
one mill, value ten shillings ; one fishery, value three 
shillings j eight viUeins, or tenants; ten bordere, or 
those that had no lands of their own; with six 
ploughs, ten acres of meadow, and a little wood. 
Of this land, the prebends held fourteen oxgangs, 
round the church. 

♦ The privilege of sanctuary was totally abolished in England, in the 
year 1548. 

t Domesday-book. 



m 



^318 Ripoisr. 

In the year 1318, the scotsVarmy arrived at thfc 
town, where they haked three days; and raised a 
contribution, from the inhabitants, of 1,000 marks. 
The year following, when famine and the sword, with 
all their direful attendants, lay heavy x>n the land, 
the same unwelcome visitors again appeared; and, 
demanded that ransom, the poor inhabitants were now 
unable to give ; the consequence of which, was, the 
burning of the town and church; and, the death of 
many of the people, who fell by the sword of those 
fierce invaders. 

In the year 1405, king Henry IV. resided some 
time at this town, to avoid the plague, which then 
raged at London. 

In 1604, king James gave a new charter to the town ; 
constituting it to be governed by a mayor, recorder, 
and twelve aldermen, with 24 common council-men, 
and a town clerk; by which, the ancient government 
was altered ; and Hugh Ripley, being the last vigila- 
xius, or wakeman, became the first mayor. 

In the year l604, the plague being very fatal at. 
York, the lord president's court was removed from 
. thence, to Ripon. 

In the year 1617> king James passed through this 
town, and lodged at mr. George Dawson's ; where he 



RIPON. ^9 

was presented, by the mayor, in the name of the cor- 
poration, with a gilt bowl, and a pair of Ripon spurs, 
value five pounds. 

In 1633, king Charles I. passed through Ripon, on 
his way to Scotland. 

In the year 1640, this town was appointed for the 
meeting of the scots' and english commissioners, to 
treat for peace \ the scots' army, having taken New- 
castle, and entered into the bishopric of Durham j 
and, the king's army then lying in and about York; 
After sitting three weeks, the parley ended; and the 
english lords condescended to pay the scots ^50,000, 
for the maintenance of their army, for two months, 
till matters should be finally settled, by the english 
parliament. 

In 1043, this town was garrisoned for the parlia- 
ment, and governed by sir Thomas Mauleverer, bart; 
whose troops defaced many of the monuments, and 
other ornaments, in the minster. A party of the king's 
horse, from Skipton-castle, under the command of sir 
John Mallory, beat up sir Thomas's quarters 5 attack- 
ed, and dispersed his main-guard, in the market- 
place j took some prisoners, and about 20 horse. 

1647. King Charles passed through this town, under 
T 2 



220 KIPOK. 

a guard, on his return from the scots' army, m hit 
way to Holmby-house, in Northamptonshire. 

1660. The great spire that stood upon saint Wil- 
frid's steeple, was blown down ; which, falling upon 
the choir, broke the arched roof, and did other great 
damages. Four years after this, the two spires, at the 
west end of the cathedral, were taken down 3 and the 
lead and timber, sold. 

In 1767» an act of parliament was obtained, for 
making navigable the river Ure, from ifs junctioD 
with the Swale, to Bondgate-gieen 5 on which, a num- 
ber of vessels are employed, to the great convenience 
and benefit of the town, ^nd neighbourhood. These 
vessels generally bring coals, groceries, and other 
merchandize -, and, take back lead, butter, &c., &c.* 

In 1794, the Ripon volunteers were raised, and the 
following gentlemen appointed officers 5 viz., captain, 
J. Dalton, esq.5 lieutenants, honorable G. V. Hobart, 
and P. Taylor. 

A very elegant town-hall was erected, in 1798; 
being a present, to this corporation, from mrs. Alan* 
son, the worthy owner of Studley-royal. 

The Cathedral 
Is a deanery, in the diocese of York j whereof, the 



HIPON. 521 

king is patron. It was preserved from the general ruin, 
at the dissolution of religious houses ; and, the revenues 
regranted, hy James I., for the support of a dean, and 
six prebendaries, besides petit cannons, and singing- 
men. It is a large, handsome, and venerable, gothic 
pile ; in the form of a cross, extending from east to 
west; having, at the west end, two uniform towers, 
iiO feet high. In the centre of the cross, is the 
great tower, called saint Wilfrid's; of the same height 
as those before-mentioned. On the north-west angle, 
is placed a cupola, for the prayer-bell to hang in. 

Length of the fabric, from east to west, withia 
the walls, 266 feet 4 inches. 

Length of the body of the nave, from the west 
door to the choir door, within the walls, 165 feet. 
Breadth of the nave, the ailes excluded, 40 feet 7 
inches. Height of the nave, from the floor to the 
square, 69 feet. 

Length of the side ailes, north and south, 110 
feet 8 inches. Breadth of the side ailes, from the pil- 
lars to the wall, 1 7 feet 10 inches. Height of the walls 
of the side ailes, from the ground to the square, 37 
feet 3 inches. 

Vestry, — length, 28 feet ; breadth, 28 feet 6 inches. 

Chapter-house, — length, 34 feet 8 inches; 

breadth, 28 feet 8 inches. Above these, is the library. 

St. Wilfrid's Needle, is a passage, leading to a 
small chapel, under the pavement of the great tower. 
Length of the chapel, is 10 feet 6 inches j breadth, 
T 3 



S22 RIPOS'. 

7 feet 6 inches ; height, 9 feet. This place is supposed 
to have been used, in former times, for the trial of 
persons accused of incontinency; and, also, for pe- 
siance. 

At the west end of the choir, are the stalls, for the 
dean, sub-dean, and prebendaries. The deaiTs stall 
is on the right hand, the sub-dean's, on the left ; and, 
the rest of them are assigned to the prebendaries, by a 
label over each. 

There are thirteen other stalls, on the north side 
of the choir, appropriated to the use of the mayor, 
and aldermen. On the south side, is the archbishop'^ 
throne, and eleven other stalls, for the use of the in- 
habitants; and, below these, on each side of the: 
choir, are seats, for the vicar's choral, choristers, and 
others. 

In the east window, are the following arms, of no- 
bility and gentry, with several of those of the deans 
and prebends of this church: 

Beilby Porteus, lord bishop of London ; Robinson^ 
lord Grantham; Norton, lord Grantley; Ingilby; 
Goodricke; Lawson; Aislabie; Weddell; Blackett^. 
Deering; Preston; Wood; Oxley; Johnson; Allan- 
son; Dawson; Wanley;, WaddUove; Meek, and 
Holdsworth., 

Chantries^ in this church : 

The chantry of assumption; founded by William^, 
snd Robert KendaL 



KIPOK* ^03 

The chantry of the holy Trinity, above the choir j 
founded by sir William Plumpton* 

The chantry of the holy Trinity, bfelow the choirs 
founded by John, a canon of saint Peter's church, 
York. 

The chantry of Thomas, the martyr* 

The chantry of saint Andrew > founded by Jei&ey 
larder, and David Walker* 

The chantry of saint Wilfrid ; founded, also, by 
Jeffrey Larder, and David Walker. 

The chantry of saint John, theevangelistj founded 
by John Sherwood* 

The chantry of saint James, the apostle ; founded 
by William Cawood, and John Dene. 

The chantry of saint James j founded by William. 
Clint, and William Leeds* 

Monuments t 

In a chapel, north of the choir door, h an elegant 
monument of white marble, representing sir Edward 
Blackett, bart.; with a lady, on each side, standing in 
a mournful attitude 5 viz., Mary, his first lady, da ugh* 
ter of Thomas Norton, of Langthorne, esq.; and 
Mary, his second lady, daughter of sir John York, of 
Richmond. He died, anno 17 IS* 

In a chapel, south of the choir door, are monu- 
ments and inscriptions, to the memory of the follow- 
ing persons : Sir John Mallory, of Studiey- royal, 
knight j obit 1655»— The right honorable El izabexh 



S24 liiPOK. 

AisLABiE, daughterof John, earl of Exefer, and wife 
of William Aislabie, esq.; obit 1733. — ^The right ho- 
norable JohnAislabie, of Studley-royal ; obit 1742* 
—Elizabeth Aislabie, daughter of', sir Charles ' 
Vernon, knight, and second wife of William Aislabie 5 
obit 1780. — William Aislabie, esq.; obit 1781. 

Near one of the pillars of the great tower, is a 
bust, with the following inscription : *^ Here lieSf ert" 
tomhedy the body of Hugh Riplei/y late of this toxvn^ 
merchant ; *who*was the last nDahemariy and thrice may- 
or ; by *whose good endeavours^ this town first became 
a majoralitie. He lived fo the age of 84 yearSy and 
died in the year of our Lordy 1637*" 

In the east window of the north aile of the choir 
are'the armsof Deering; under which, is a handsome 
monument, to the memory of doctor Heneage Deer- 
ing, 40 years, residentiary dean of Riponj obit 1750. 

In the Alley south of the Choir : 

An hatchment, to the memory of sir Roger 
Beckwith, lateof Aldbrough, bartj who died, at 
Ripon, in 1700. 

A monument, to the memory of Robert Por- 
TEUS, gentleman; obit 1758. 

A monument, to the memory of Edward Rich* 
ARDSon; 1650. 

A bust, much defaced, to the memory of MasES^ 



HiPOK. 925 

Fowler, bachelor of divinity j the first dean of this 
church. 

A copartment, with the arms of Dawson and Proc- 
tor> to the memory of Priscilla Dawson, daugh« 
ter of sir Stephen Proctor, and wife of George Daw- 
son 5 1622. 

An hatchment, parted per chevron crenelle, or, 
and azure, three martlets counterchanged 5 to the me- 
mory of Jonathan Hodgson j 1700. 

Under an elegant bust, placed near the south door, 
is the following inscription : 

TO THE memory OP 

William: weddell, esq., or newbyj 
IN whom, 

EVERY VIRTUE THAt ENNaBLfiS THE MIND 

WAS UNITED, 
WITH EVERY ELEGANCE THAT ADORNS IT; 

THIS MONUMENT, 

A FAINT EMBLEM OF HIS REFINED TASTE^ 

IS DEDICATED, 

BY 

HIS WIDOW : 

*' Whom, ^hat awaits, while yet she strajs 

** Along the lonely vale of days ? 
*' A pang, to secret sorrow dear, 
** A sigh, an unavailing tear! 
« Tin time shall ev'ry grief remove, 
" With life, with memVy, and with love*** 
OBIT 17S9. 



Q26 Ripoir. 

North A iky of the Nave : 

A marble monument, to the memory of Ann Hut- 
chinson j 1730. 

Near the north door, is a very ancient altar-tomb^ 
on which, are two whole-length figures, said to repre- 
sent SIR William Markenfield, knight, and 
his lady. 

A marble monument, to the memory of Francis 
Whiter 1776. 

Cross Aile: 

A monument, to the memory of Elizabeth Nor-^ 
TON, widow of Thomas Norton, of Grantleyj 1774. 

South Aihy of the Nave : 

Next the wall, is an altar-tomb of grey marble; 
whereon are sculptured, the figures of a man, and a 
lion, in a grove of trees. There is no inscription re- 
maining j but, tradition informs us, this tomb was 
placed over the body of a prince, son of an Irish king> 
who died at Ripon, on his return from Palestine; 
from whence, he brought with him a lion, so tame 
and docile, as to follow him with all the familiarity of 
a spaniel. 

A monument, to the memory of mrs. Grace 
Stains, daughter of Thomas Stains, esq,, of Thirsk, 
in this county; obit 1771. 

OvsR the entrance into saint Wilfrid's needle, is a 



BiPON. 227 

monument, to the memory of Charles Floyer, 
esq.; obit 1766. 

jarmorial llSearingsf, 
The Windows of this Church. 



South Cross: 

Azure, a stag's head erased, with a branch in his 
mouth, vert, — ^Redshaw. 

North Cross : 

Arms of Lindley, Staveley, Burton, Greswold, 
Hook, Littleton, Paris, Drake, and Wilkins. 

Sottth Aile, of the Nave : 

Goodrick, Swale, Wandsford, Tancred, and Lewis* 

North Aiky of the Nave: 

Vivian, Welbury, Norton, Mallory, Ingilby, 
Hutton, Proctor, Dawson, Ingram, Wentworth, Bur- 
well, and Lister. 

South AilCy of the Clwir: 

The arms of Driffield; under which, is inscribed: 
Christopher Driffield^ 1733 ; andAnri^ his 'wife, 1758. 

The Library : 
Here is a large collection of books, chiefly old di* 



S28 KIPOK. 

vinity ; and the following paintings, on wooden pa- 
nels, well executed : Edward III., Richard IL j Hen- 
ry IV.; Henry v.; Henry VI.; Edward IV.; Elizabeth 
Vi^oodville; Richard III.; Henry VIL; Elizabeth, his 
queen, and Margaret, his mother ; Henry VIII.; Ca- 
tharine Parr; AnnaBolen; Jane Seymour; Edward 
VI.; and queen Mary. 

Minster^Yard : 

Amongst many other inscriptions here, are the 
following remarkable ones : 

HIC JACET ZACHARIAS JEPSON, 

cujus mxKS FUiT 49. 

PER PAUCOS ANNOS TANTUM VIXIT. 

** Here lieth the body of Margaret Lupton, late wife 
of mr. Sampson Luptoriy of Braisty-woodSf in Nether^ 
dale; 'who depa?'fed this life, the second of Novemberp 
1718, in the 7 M year of her age; and, lived to be 
mother, and grandmother to above 150 children; and, 
at the baptizing of her first grandchild, the child had 
ten grandfathers and grandmothers, then present. 

Public Foundations : 
The hospital of saint Mary Magdalen, with the 
chapel adjoining, in Stammergate. 

The hospital, and chapel of saint Anne, in Anna's- 
gate. On the outside of this building, are the arms 
of sir Solomon Swale, with the initials S. S., and date, 
1654. 



RIPON. !239 

The free-school, in Anna's-gate, founded by Ed- 
ward VL3 finished, and endowed, by queen Mary, 1553.' 

The chapel of saint John, on the south side of 
the town. 

The hospital, in Skelgate, for twelve poor boys j 
founded by Zacharias Jepson, 1672 j whose epitaph, 
is in the preceding page. 

Ar7ns of Ripon : 

Gules, a bugle-horn, stringed and garnished, or; 

the word RIPON, of the last; the letters I and N, in 

. pale ; R and P, in chief; and, the letters P O, in fesse. 

N. B. The mouth-piece of the horn, to the dexter. 

This town was formerly noted for the manufacture 
of spurs, said to be the best in England ; whence the 
proverb, ** As true steel, as Ripon rowels;" but, this 
is now entirely discontinued. 

The mayor is elected yearly, upon the first Tues* 
day in January ; and, enters into his office, on Can- 
dlemas-day. To support his dignity during that period, 
he has the rent of certain lands, with the toll of corn 
and grain, sold in the market ; which toll, was given 
to the wakeman and his successors, before the con- 
quest, and confirmed by Henry VIIL, in the year 1533. 

The archbishop of York, has a court here, and his 
prison^ for the liberty of Ripon. These premises stand 
U 



eSO ELLSHAW-HILL. 

upon part of the site of the palace, on the north side 
qf the church; and here, by his majesty's commission, 
justices are appointed, who hold sessions, and act in 
a judicial manner, for the town and liberty. 

Leland, speaking of Ripon, says, *' The old town 
*' stood much by north and east, as I could gather, by 
** viewing it 5 the best of the town, now standeth by 
** west and south. The very place where market-stede, 
** and heart of the town is, was sometimes called 
•* Holly-hill, by reason of holly trees there growing. 
** The old abbey stood, where is now a chapel of our 
** lady, in a bottom, one close distant from the new 
*' minster. 

At the east end of the town, is a remarkable tumu- 
lus, called 

ELLSHAW-HILL; 

Which Leland observes, was, in his time, covered 
with wood. A single tree now only remains; and, the 
hill itself will probably disappear, in a few years, as 
there are large openings made into it, for the purpose of 
procuring sand and gravel. It's shape was nearly that 
of a cone; whose circumference, at the base, is about 
900 feet; and, height of the slope, 220 fept.^ The 
whole is one continued mass of sand, gravel, small 
pebbles, and human skeletons, in^g^lternate sta* 



ELLSHAW-HILL. 231 

tas, from the base to the summit. Here is a tra- 
dition, that this mountain >vas formed out of the ruins 
of the old monastery; but, the great quantity of 
bones, without the least appearance of lime or rub- 
Bish, forbid this conjecture; it must, also, be remem- 
bered, that some coins of Osbright, and Ella, two 
northumbrian princes, were found in this hill, in the 
year 1695, which were preserved by the archbishop 
of York; and, afterwards given, by the prelate, to 
that learned and ingenious antiquary, mr. Thoresby^ 
of Leeds. These coins were of brass; eight of which, 
made one penny; and, it is very possible, might have 
belonged to some person, whose remains are here 
interred. > 

The danes, under the conduct of Hinguar, and 
Hubba, about the year 867, entered Northumberland, 
and proceeded towards York, Li the course of their 
march, they were opposed by an army of northumbri- 
ans, led by Osbright ; who, with Ella, another saxon 
prince, then held the government of this principality. 
A sharp engagement ensued, which ended in favor of 
the danes; — Osbright, and a great part of his army, were 
slain. The conquerors continued their march to York, 
where they presently arrived, and took up their quai- 
ters. Ella being informed of the overthrow of hh 
co-partner, Osbright, and learning where the enemy 
were posted, collected all his force, and advanced to- 
wards them. The danes, hearing of his approach^ 
U 2 



232 MARKENFIEI.n. 

inarched out to meet himj and, at a place^ say* 
Brompton, called ** EUa's-crof t/' not far from York, 
March 21, 867, were again victorious: Ella was 
slain on the spot, together with eight northumbrian 
earls, and a very great number of soldiers. Drake 
observes, there is no such place as Ella's-croft, near 
York ; here, then, it is probable, is the place 5 and, 
that, in this tumulus, were deposited the remains of 
Ella, and his unfortunate associates in arms, still 
caUed « EUshaw*.hill," q.d., EUa's-hill. 

MARKENFIFXD; 

Five miles from Ripon, formerly the seat of a fa. 
mily of that name. Here are the remains of an old 
hall, surrounded by a moat, sufficient to show that it 
hath once been a spacious mansion. On the out- 
ward wall, are several shields of arms, now partly 
worn out, by time; within, was a private oratory, or 
chapel. In the reign of Henry L, Thomas de Mar- 
kenfield was lord of this place. Sir Nynian Mar ken* 
field, knight, made his will here, dated October I, 
1527; and, thereby directed his body to be buried 
before the altar of saint Andrew, in the church of 
jRipon ; and, bequeathed to that church, in the name 
of his mortuary i his best horse, saddle, and bridle^ 
with other apparel, according to the custom of the 
said church. This gentleman was present, at the bat* 

♦ Sh<mt a grove of tree§. 



STUDLEY-ROYAL. 233 

tie of Floodden-field, in 1513, as appears by the fol- 
lowing lines, written on that occasion : 

" Next -went sir Nynian Markenfil, 
** In armour-coat, of cunning work ; 

" The next went sir John Maundevill, 
" With him, the citizens of York.** 

In the year 1569, Thomas Markenfield joining in 
the rebellion against queen Elizabeth, his estate was 
forfeited 5 and he, with many others, was obliged 
to take refuge, in a foreign countr}\ The estate 
was granted to the chancellor, Egerton; and remain* 
ed in that family, till it was purchased of the duke 
of Bridgewater, by the first lord Grantley. 

Near three miles south-west of Ripon, is 

STUDLEY -ROYAL : 

This elegant villa formerly belonged tp the fami- 
ly of Tempest, who was succeeded by that of Mallory. 
Sir John Mallory, knight, distinguished himself, by 
his loyalty to Charles L; heleftason, named William, 
who died S, P., and six daughters ; of whom, Mary, 
married George Aislabie, of the city of York, esq.; 
by which marriage, this estate came into that family^ 
he died in the year 1674. The issue of this marriage, 
was George, who died >S'. P.3 and John, who married 
Anne, daughter of sir William Rawlinsou j and, se- 
condly, Judith, daughter of sir Stephen Walter, by 
whom, he had William ; Marv, married to Edward 
Us 



£34 STUPLEY-ROYAL, 

Walter, of Beaconsfield, esq.; Jane, married sir 
Henry Slingsby, bart.; William, married Elizabeth^ 
daughter of John, earl of Exeter ; by whom, he had 
issue, John, who died in his father's life-time y Eliza* 
beth, married to Charles Allanson, esq.; Anne, to 
William Lawrence, esq.; Sophia, obit S, P.; William, 
S, P.; Jenny Maria, S. P.; Judith, S. P.. 

The principal objects of attention here, are the 
pleasure-grounds,* begun about 70 years ago; and,^ 
have long been celebrated as the first in the north of 
England. They are at a small distance from the house^ 
in a valley ; wherein, are several pieces of water, sup- 
plied by a small brook, that runs by Fountains-abbey* 
The hills, on each side, are covered with wood. In 
the delightful recesses, are several buildings, so placed, 
as to form excellent points of view, from the diiferent 
walks. The wide extended plantations, are judicious- 
ly varied, as the object of the landscape becomes newj^ 
in one part, the hills gradually ascend, with tufts of 
shade interspersed over the verduxe ; in aiiother, they 
precipitately risQ, with tall woods covering their brows -^ 
below which, the stream wanders in one place, with 
a silent current; and, in another, falls in cascades^ 

Soon after your entrance> you pass by 

The Cold-Bath, 
A neat little building, consisting of two rooms., 

• The park aad pleasure-ground?, ai^ said to cousist of 1000 acres. 



STUDLEYi-ROYAL. 235 

The bath is ten feet long, eight feet ^v^de, and four 
feet six inches deep. Dressing-room, is thirteen feet 
long, ten feet broad, and seven feet high : Furniture, 
green and white. Near this place, under the shade 
of a grove of tall pines, at some distance from each 
other, are placed two statues, one called " The con- 
quering;'' and, the other, ** The dying gladiator;'* 
said to be the models of those, erected to the memory 
of the HoRiATii, and CuRiATii, at Rome* 

From hence, passing through avenues of lofty 
pines, beeches, and sycamores, to 

CoJistitution-HilTy 

You have a iine view of the lake, and moon-pond^ 
adorned with the statues of Neptune, the Wrest- 
lers, Bacchus, Galen, Hercules, and Ante-- 

NOR^ 

You are next conducted to the 
Temple of Piety ; 

Beautifully situated; and, commanding a de» 
lightful view of the surrounding scenery. Over the 
chimney-piece, is a representation of that admirable 
iastance of filial piety — the daughter preserving her 
parent's life,, by miik from her own breast^ as related, 
by Valerius MaximuSy book F*, chapter 4. 

Passiu^q by the octagon, and gothic towers^ and^ 



^S6 s^tJD L £Y '•noYmi. 

ofeservihg fiewb^atitie^- at e^fj Opening throU^'b tlie 
trees, you approach the veiie Able ruins of Fountains- 
abbey; whose ancient splendor^ is seen in it's ruined 
GGlumti&, falling walls, and imperfect arches. 

Returning from the abbey, enter an avenue of 
yew and laurel ; at the end of which, passing by a 
statue of pRiAFus, nearly concealed by the trees,, 
you come to the 

Banqueti?ig'FIous€; 

An elegant building, on the front of which are 
carved, the figures of envy, hatred, andiviALicE^ 
seemingly intending to intimate, that those malevo- 
lent dispositions should always remain on the outside^ 
and never be suffered to approach th^ festive board. 
Here are three well-proportioned rooms : In the first* 
is a statue of Venus, gf Medicis;^ over the chim- 
ney-piece, a painting of a man, on horseback, m the 
habit of a turk, with a hawk upon his arm : In the 
second room, within an alcove, is an elegant sopha: 
The third, seems intended for the purpose of arranging 
and preparing the viands, for the banquet* 

Throughout this whole scene of variety, the 
inrprovements are adapted to follow the luxuriant 
fancy of nature^ and humour her diifeient propen- 
sities : You see her decked out and enriched, where 
laecessity or propriety bespeak indulgence, in the sim^ 



STUDLEY-ROYAL. Q37 

plicity of her own dress ; where ornament would dis, 
guise her beautiful attire. 

RETURNING to the gate, a scene presents itself^ 
best described in the following lines ; 

** The lake, the island, and tbe birds, 

" A living landscape spread ; the feather'd fleet, 

" Led by the mantling swans, at every creek 

" Now touch'd, and now unmoofd ; now on full sail, 

" With pinions spread, and oary feet, they ply 

'* Their vagrant voyage ; and now, as if becalm'd, 

" 'Twecn shore and shore, at anchor seem to sleep, 

** Around the shores, the fowls that fear the stream, 

** At random rove : hither, hot Guinea sends 

" Her gadding troop; here, mid'st his speckled dames, 

** The pigmy chanticleer, of Bantam, winds 

" His clarion ; while, supreme, in glittering state, 

** The peacock spreads his rainbow train, with eyes 

" Of sappliire bright, irradiate each with gold. 

" Meanwhile, from every spray, the ringdoves coo, 

" The linnets warble, captive none, but lur*d 

" By food, to haunt the umbrage : Ail the glade 

" Is life, is music, liberty, and love." 

MASON *$ GARD£N. 




2^utn0 

OP 



^<^,^^f?f^»y 



WhI'ch are, certainly, the grandest' and most 
beautiful, except, perhaps, those of Glastonbury, 
that this kingdom can produce. This abbey was 
founded in 1132, for monks of the Cistercian order ; 
and, built with stone, taken from the rocks in the 
adjoining hill. The fabric was begun about the year 
1204, by John de Ebor, the abbot, who laid the foun- 
dation, and raised some pillars 5-— John Pherd, the next 
abbot, carried on the work, with the utmost expedi- 
tion j-— John de Cancia, his successor, finished the 
structure, and instituted nine altars therein, adding 
the painted pavemestt, bull* the new cloister, the 
iniirmaryj and- the house for entertainment of the 
poor. In the aile of the most eastern trans versed 
part of the church, were many columns of black 
marble, with white spo|s^,ip.the ch ap ter and refec- 
tory were pillars of the same sort. This last John, died 
in the year 1245 ; whence it appears, that this fabric was 
erected in less than 40 years. Marmaduke Brodelay, 
the last abbot, surrenderecWhis abbey, in the year 
1540, and, had a pension of c£ 100 allowed him. Ks 



/. 







FOUNTAINS-ABBEY. 539 

revenues then amounted, according to Dugdale, to 
«£998i and, according to Speed, to 10731 0^. lid 

The length of the xihurch, from east to west, is 
351 feet. The transept, is 186 feet wide. 

Before the high-altar, probably under the painted 
pavement, Henry, first lord Percy, of Alnwick, 
was interred, in the year 1315, 

On the left side of this altar, carved upon the wall, 
is the figure of an angel, holding a scroll, on which 
is the date, 1285. 

Behind the altar, is theciRCUMAMBULATORyj 
132 feet long, and SQ feet broad. 

The Chapter-House : 

EiGHTy*FOUR feet, by 42. A rectangular room j 
once supported by two rows of pillars. 

In the year 1790, and 1791> this room was cleared 
cf the rubbish, with which it was covered, when ,a 
painted pavement was discovered, broken and disfi- 
gured, in many places; here, also, were found 13 
of the abbots' grave-stones, most of which, were bro- 
ken and defaced, having had the brass plates and 
other ornaments, with which they were inlaid, torn 
away, so that the two following inscriptions only 
remain legible : 

HIC REQIESCIT DOMINUS JOHANNES, 

X. ABBAS DE FONTIBUS, 

QUI OBIIT Vm. DIE DECEMBRIS. 



2i0 rOUNTAINS-AEBEY. 

This tenth abbot, John, was created abbot in the 
year 1203, and died about 1209 j as John Pherd, the 
eleventh abbot, succeeded to the abbacy in that year. 
On opening the above grave, nothing was found, ex- 
cept a scull, and a thigh bone. 

Second Inscription : 

HIC REqUlESCIT DOMINUS JOHANNES, 
XII. ABBAS DE FONTIBUS. 

This was John de Cancia, who was created in 1219, 
and died about 1245. 

Their coffins were of stone, covered with two 
courses of slates, well cemented together ; these covers 
were not above eighteen inches below the pavement. 
The grave-stones, which are of grey marble, mixed 
with spar, are raised some inches above the pave- 
ment; they are six feet in length; two feet broad, at 
the head, and eighteen inches at the feet. 

Over the chapter-house, was the library, 
and SCRIPTORIUM, where the monks used to write. 

The Refectory, 

Or DINING-ROOM, is 108 feet by 45; on one side 
thereof, is the reading-gallery; (for, a portion of 
scripture was always read, to the monks, during meals.) 
In the front of this gallery, is a very neat console^ 
in the form of an expanded flower. 



FOUNTAINS-ABBEY. 241 

The Cloisters: 

A vast extent of straight vault, 300 ieci long, and 
42 broad \ divided length-ways, by nineteen pillars, 
and 20 arches: each pillar, divides into eight ribs,- at 
the top, which diverge and intersect each other, on 
the roof, in the most curious manner. Here is a large 
stone bason, the remains of a spouting- fountain. 

The Dormitory ; 
Or, sleeeping-room ; of the same dimensions as the 
cloisters. This place contained 40 cells. 

Cloister-Garden, 

Is 126 feet square, enclosed with a high wall, and 
planted with ever-greens. This garden, probably 
retains more of it's original form, than any other part 
of these ruins. 

Over a window, on the west side of the steeple, is 
the figure of a thrush, standing on a tun: This is a 
rebus, allusive to the name of the founder; Thurs- 
tan, archbishop of York. On each side of the stee- 
ple, the following inscriptions remain legible : 

On the east side : 

gOLI DEO IHU- XTO. HONOR ET 
6LIA. IN SOLA. SCLOR. 

West side : 

AONO. DEI IHU, XTO. HONOR ET GLIA. 

IN SOLA. SCLOR. 

X 



242 rOUNTAINS-ABBEY. 

North side ; 

ET VIRTUS ET FORTITUDO DEO NOSTRO IN SE* 

CULA SECULORUM, AMEN. 
SOLI DEO HONOR ET GLIA. IN SEOUL A SECULORUM. 

South side : 

SOLI DEO HONOR ET GLIA. IN SECULA 
SECULORUM, AMEN. 

Besides the large ruins, here and there are seen, 
in various parts, amongst the trees and bushes, detatch- 
cd fragments ; once the appendages of this great house. 

On the south side of the abbey, stood seven yew- 
trees, all yet (1809) growing, except the largest, which 
was blown down, some years ago : The circumference 
of the trunk of one of them, is 26 feet 6 inches, 
about three feet from the ground. They all stand 
so nigh each other, as to make an excellent cover, 
almost equal to that of a thatched roof. Under these 
trees, we are told, by tradition, the monks resided, 
till they built the monastery ; which seems to be very 
probable, if we consider, how little a yew-tree in- 
creases in a year 5 and, to what bulk these are grown. 
And, as the hill-side wa« covered with wood, \yhich is 
now almost all cut down, except these trees, it seems 
as if they were left standing, to perpetuate the memo- 
ry of the monks' habitation there, during the first win- 
itx of their residence. 



rOUNTAINS-ABEEY. S43 

The following, are the names of such persons, as 
occur to have been interred, in the church of 
Fountains : 

William de Percy, father of Maud, countess 
of Wa^^vick; Henry de Percy, who died the 8 th of 
Edward II., was interred before the great altar ; Ro • 
bert de Masham ; William Ducket; Robert de Sartis, 
and Raganilda, his wife 3 Serlo de Pembroke ; Alexan- 
der, brother of Allen de Edlingthorpe; Lambinus de 
Stodelay, and Eleanora, his wife j William de Hebe- 
den ; Oliver Busey; Alice Mauliverer, of Alverston; 
Robert le Paumer; Adeliza Pipard; Henry, son of 
Robert de Merking j Roger de Stapylton 5 and, Fran- 
cis Beauvais. 

This abbey, with all it's appendages, when complete, 
took up twelve acres of ground j two of which, are 
occupied by the present ruins. 

f* I doe love these ancient ruinefr— 
We never tread upon them, but we set 
Our feet upon some reverend history ; 
And, questionless, here, in the open court, 
"Which now lies naked, to the injuries 
Of stormy weather, some men lie interred, 
Lov'd the church so well, and gave so largely to't» 
They thought it should have canopied their bones^ 
Till domesday; but, all things have their end: 
Churches and cities, (which have diseases like to mcn^ 
Must have like death that we have.*' 

X2 



244 rOUNT A INS-ABBE Y» 

A catalogue of the abbots, of Fountains. 

Time of Vacated 
ABBOTa NAMES. creation, by. 

Anno, 

1, Richard II39. mort. 

2, Richard, the second ... 1 139. m. 

3, Henry Murdoch 1143. resig. 

4, Mauricius 1146. r. 

5, Thorald 1146. r. 

6, Richard, the third .... -^— . mort. 

7, Robert, abbot of Pipewell II70. m. 

8, William II79. rru 

9, Ralph Hagett II90. m. 

10, John 1203. m. 

11, John Pherd 1209. resig. 

12, John de Caneia, (of Kent) 1219. mort 

13, Stephen de Eston ..... 1246. m. 

14, William de AUerton . . . 1252. m. 

15, Adam 1258. nj. 

16, Alexander 1259. m. 

17t Reginald 1265. m. 

18, Peter Ailing 1274. depos.. 

19, Nicholas .......... — •. mort 

20, Adam 1280. m. 

21, Henry de Otely 1284. m. 

22, Robert Bishopton 1290. m. 

23, William Rygton 1311. m. 

24, Walter Cokewald 1316. resig.. 

Jt5, Robert Copegyrie 1336. mort. 



FOUNTAINS-ABBEY. 245 

26, Robert Moulton, or Monk- 
ton 1S46. m. 

27, William Gower 1369. resig. 

28, Robert Burley 1384. mort. 

29» Roger Fraunk 1410. expul. 

30, John Ripon . mort. 

31, Thomas Passelew 1434. resign 

82, John Martin 1442. mort. 

33, John Grenewell, S. T. P, . — — . m, 

31, Thomas Swinton . ..... 1471. resig. 

35, JohnDameton 1478. 

36, Marmaduke Huby .... 1494. 

37, William Thirske, B. D. . 1526. 

38, Marmaduke Huby .... 1537* 
S9f Marmaduke Brodelay, or 

Bradlay, suffragan bi- 
shop of Hull 1537. 

An account of the plate and store^ of the 
monastery y taken a Utile before the dissolution : * 

£. s. d. 
Total value of plate, in the chwrch - 519 : 15 : 5 

Total of plate, in the custody 



:'} 



147 : 13 : 7i 
my lord abbot 

Total in the buttery SO 

Total in the frater ..-.-.- 3 

Ditto, at Brimham 7 



8 : 7 

3 : 4 

4 : 10 



<£708 : 5 : 9l 



# Burton's Monasticon. 

X 3 



©46 FOtTNTA INS-HALL, 

Corn^ in the domains of the monastery : 

117 quarters of wheat 
12 quarters of rye, 
134 quarters of oats. 
592 loads of hay. 
In the GRANARIES, 128 quarters of corn. 

Horned cattle 2356 

Sheep 1326 

Horses ---------------- 86 

Swine -- - 79 

Two hundred yards west of the abbey, stands 
FOUNTAINS -HALL ; 

Which was built out of the ruins of that religi- 
ous house, by sir Stephen Proctor, one of the es- 
quires to James I.. On each side of the front, is a 
square embattled tower; between which, extends a 
balcony, adorned with statues. Over the entrance, 
are two crests ; first, a stag's head 5 second, an otter, 
with a fish in it's mouth ; and, between them, the mot- 
to of the Proctor family : 

RIEN TROVANT GAINERAY TOVT. 

A circular stair-case, of stone, in each tower, leads 
to many rooms ; few of which, are now in use. The 
dining-room is hung with tapestry, representing The* 
lis giving directions to Vulcan, concerning the making 



rOUNTAINS-HALI. S47 

of Achilles's armour 5 Jupiter, and Ganymede ; and 
the rape of Proserpine. 

In the chapel, is an ornamented chimney-piece, 
representing the judgment of Solomon. In the wia- 
dows, are great numbers of armorial bearings, beau* 
tifuUy stained on glass; with the names of the 
persons, to whom they belonged. They seem chiefly 
intended, to trace the pedigree of sir Stephen Proctor. 
The following account of marriages, is, also, there 
inserted t 

Sir Thomas Miwray, knt., married Elizabeth, 
daughter of sir Nicholas Finche, knt. ; and had issue, 
Adam and John : 

Adam Miwray, esq., married the daughter of John 
Crimpes; and had issue, Jeffrey, 

Thomas Miwray, alias. Proctor, of Frierhead, 
married Mary, daughter of John Proctor, of Win- 
terburn; and had issue. 

Thomas Miwray, alias. Proctor, of Frierhead, 
married Grace, daughter of Thomas Nowel 3 and had 
issue. 

Sir Oliver Miwray, of Tynbridge, in the county of 
Kent ; married, and had issue, Godfrey, and Jane. 

Godfrey Miwray, married the daughter of Richard 
Kemp, esq. J and ha4 issue, Thomas, David, and 
Margaret. 

Stephen Proctor, of Frierhead, married the daugh- 



^48 FOUNTAlNS-HALt. 

ter of Henry Lamberdej they had issue, Gabriel 
Thomas, and others. 

Gabriel Miwray, alias, Proctor, of Frierhead, mar- 
ried Elizabeth, daughter of Hugh Flemynge ; they 
had issue. 

John Miwray, alias. Proctor, of Frierhead, mar- 
ried Mary, daughter of — — , of Munckroyd. 

First window : 

0?mg of 

Clifford, and Saint-John Clifford, and Calthrope 

Clifford, and Flint Wharton, and Clifford 

Clifford, and Hughes Chalmslay, and Clifford 

Aske, and Clifford Atton, and Fitz-John 

Bromeflet and Alton Clifford, and Bohun 

Bromeflet, andViponte Boynton, and Clifford 

Lord Clifford Derby, and Spencer 

perbee, and Oxenford Fitzharden, and Du Conv 
Urie, and Atton "wall. 

Circular window : 

Argent, a cross, or a chief, cliarged with three bc« 
zants. 

Gules, three cinquefoils. 

Third windvic : 
An otter, with a fish in it's mooth. 
Proctor, and Greene Langdale, and Miwxay 



rOUNTAINS-HALL. 



249 



Greene, and Wake 
Greene, and Polington 
Greene, andFoliad 
Proctor, and Finche 
Proctor, and Winterburn 
Middleton, and Proctor 
Thirkeld, and Aston 
Pickering, and Lowther 
Greene, and Broughton 
Miwray, and Crimpes 
Miwray, and Nowel 
Bancke, and Proctor 
Flemynge, and Thirkeld 
Pickering, and Lascelles 
Miwray, and Durell 
Proctor, and Ellis 
Miwray, and Ellis. 



Miwray, and Kemp 
Proctor, and Lainberde 
Miwray, and Flemynge 
Clapham, and Proctor 
Thirkeld, and Huddleston 
Thirkeld, and Engilby 
Dudley, and Thirkeld 
Huddleston, and Cleburtt 
Bedenham and Miwray 
RadclifFe, and Huddleston 
Thirkeld, and Lumley 

Miwray, and 

Proctor and Hammerton 
Thrognel and Miwray 
Huddleston, and Curwen 
Huddleston, and Fenwick. 



On the first of May, 1540, king Henry VIII. gran- 
ted, by letters patent, to sir Richard Gresham, and 
his heirs, the dissolved monastery of Fountains 5 with 
about 543 acres of land, and all the liberties and pri- 
yileges thereto belonging. 



In the year 1596, William Gresham, esq., sold thit 
estate, to Stephen Proctor, of Warsall,- esq., for 
45001.^ from whose heirs, it passed, by purchase, in the 
year 1622, to sir Timothy Whittingham, ofHolmside, 
in the county of Durham, knt., for S595l.> who sold 
the same, in the year 1625, to Humphrey Wharton^ 



250 rOUNTAINS-HALL. 

of Gillingwood, esq., for3,500l.j of whom it was par- 
chased, in the year 1627, by Richard Ewers, of South*' 
Cowton, in the county of York, for 4,000l. ; whose 
daughter, and sole heiress, Eliza, married John Mes- 
senger, esq., of Newsham. This estate remained in 
the Messenger family, till the year 17O7 ; when John 
Michael Messenger, esq., sold it to William Aislabie, 
esq., of Studley, for 18,000L 

John, the eldest son of captain Messenger, was 
made secretary to the queen of Charles L5 which post, 
he held till his death, in the year I6683 and, lies bu» 
ried in the church of saint Eustace, in Paris. 

Before we take leave of Fountains-abbey, it may 
not be improper to mention Henry Jenkins, that 
remarkable instance of longevity, who was often at 
this abbey, during the residence of the last abbot.—* 
Bishop Lyttleton communicated to the society of an- 
tiquarians, December 11, 1766, a paper, copied from 
an old household book, of sir Richard Graham, hart., 
of Norton-Conyers 5 the writer of which, says,*— 
that, upon his going to live at Bolton, Jenkins was 
said to be about 150 years old 5 and, he had often 
examined him, in his sister's kitchen, where he came 
for alms ; and found facts, in chronicles, agree with 
his account. He was, then, 162, or 163: He said 
he was sent to North- AUerton, with a horse- load of ar- 
rows, for the battle of Floodden-field, with which, a 
bigger boy went forward to the army, under the earl 



rOUNT A INS'-H A LL. SOI 

of Surrey ; king Henry VIII. being at Tournay -, and, 
he believed himself then, eleven or twelve yeai^ old. 
This was in 1513, and four or five people, of the 
same parish, said to be 100, or near it, declared Jen- 
kins to have been an old man, ever since they knew him. 
H« gave evidence, in court, to six score )^ears, in a tithe 
cause, 1667, between the vicar of Catterick, andWil* 
Ham and Peter Mawbank ; wherein, he deposed, that 
the tithes of wool, lamb, &c., mentioned in the inter- 
rogatories, were the vicar's, and had been paid, to his 
knowledge, 1^20 years, and more. The writer was present 
at another cause, between mr. Hawes, and mr. Wastel, 
of Ellerton, where Jenkins gave evidence to 120 yearsi 
The judge asking him how he lived, he said by thatch^ 
ing, and salmon-fishing 5 that he was thatching a house, 
when served with a subpoena in the cause ; and would 
dub a hook, with any man in Yorkshire. The writer 
went to see him, at Ellerton- upon-S wale, and met 
him carrying a pitcher of water, upon his head ; he 
told him, he remembered the dissolution, and that 
great lamentation was made : that he had been butler 
to lord Conyers, of Hornby-castle ; and, that Mar- 
maduke Brodelay, lord abbot of Fountains, did fre- 
quently visit his lord, and drink a hearty glass with 
him ; and, that his lord often sent him to inquire how 
the abbot did, who always sent for him to his lodgings j 
and, after ceremonies, as he called it, passed, ordered 
him, besides wassel, a quarter of a yard of roast-beef, 
for his dinner, (for, that the monasteries did deliver 



852 JrdtTNTAINS-HAXL. 

their guests, meat, by measure) and a great blackjack 
of strong drink. Jenkins could neither read nor write ; 
He died, December, I67O, at Ellerton-upon-Swale 5 
where a monument was erected, to his memory, in 
1743 ; and, an epitaph composed, by doctor Thomas 
Chapman, master of Magdalen College, Cambridge: 

BLUSH NOT, MARBLE, 
.J3V TO RESCUE FROM OBLIVION, 

tHE MEMORY OF HENRY JENKINS 5 

A PERSON, OBSCURE IN BIRTH, 

BUT, OF A LIFE TRULY MEMORABLE; 

FOR, 

HE WAS ENRICHED WITH THE GOODS OF NATURE^ 

IF NOT OF FORTUNE; 

AND HAP^y, IN THE DURATION, 

IE NOT THE VARIETY, OF HIS ENJOYMENTS; 

AND, THOUGH 

THE PARTIAL WORLD DESPISED AND DISREGARDED 

HIS LOW AND HUMBLE STATE, 

THE E<^UAL EYE OF PROVIDENCE BEHELD, 

AND BLESSED IT, 

WITH A patriarch's HEALTH, 

AND LENGTH OF DAYS; 

TO TEACH MISTAKEN MAN 

THESE BLESSINGS ARE ENTAILED ON TEMPERENCE; 

A LIFE OF labor; AN1>, A MIND AT EASE: 

HE LIVED 

TO THE AMAZING AGE OF 

169. 



HACKFALL, 253 

Near Fountains, is 

MICHAEL-HOW-HILL, 

A lofty eminence, partly covered with wood. Upon 
the summit of this hill, was a chapel, called ** Saint 
Michaels de Monte,'' In the year 1345, it was agreed, 
between the chapter of Ripon and the abbot and 
convent of Fountains, that the said abbot and succes- 
sors, should have divine service celebrated in the said 
chapel, and receive the oblations there; for which, 
^he ablx)t, &c., were to pay, annually, to the chapter 
of Ripon, 2s. 6d. The chapel, after the dissolution 
of the monastery, was taken down, and a gothic tower 
erected on the site ; from which, is a very fine prospect 
of the surrounding country, to a vast extent. Upojt 
a stone, which was in the wall of the chapel, but now 
placed over the door of the pre&ent building, is in- 
scribed : 

The two last letters, are supposed to be numerical ;" 
the M, to signify 1,000 j and, the H, 200. 

Seven miles from Studley, is 
HACKFALL; 

From Hagf a witch ; and fallf t descent, /. e., 
Tl^e witches' valley. No situation seems more calcu-* 

y 



254 hackfAll. 

lated for the supposed resort of hags and faries, than 
the bottom of this deep, sequestered, gloomy vale* 

" Where many a glade is found— 

** The haunt of wood-nymphs only ; 

*' JPor, here, if art hath ever enter'd, 

** 'Twas with unsandalM foot, 

*' Printless, as if the place were hallow'd grouiiid.** 

A small rivulet, rising at some distance, runs into 
^ deep woody glen, and forms, at the entrance, three 
or four small pools , and, in issuing out of them, makes 
so many little cascades, judiciously varied in their 
forms. It then hastens, with precipitance, to the river 
Ure, at the bottom of the dale ; rushing over heaps of 
stones and pebbles, which obstruct if s passage, and 
makes a multitude of falls, continually differing in 
shape and size. On the right, rises a very steep hill, 
covered with under-wood ; through which is seen, a 
water-fall of considerable height. On the top of the 
hill, in a very picturesque situation, stands a ruine4 
tower, called 

Moiohray-<:astle. 

On the left, the walk is formed under a shade of 
lofty trees, growing on a steep bank. At the bottom 
of this walk, is 

Fishers' 'hall \ 

A small octagon room, built of a petrified substance 5 
and, surrounded by a vast amphitieatre of woods. The 



HACKFALL, 255 

river Ure is now seen, whose noise had been heard 
before, roaring over heaps of stone», torn from the 
adjoining rocks, by it's fuiy, when swelled with rain ; 
It runs here, in a curve, round a point of high land 
on the opposite side, cloathed with hanging wood 
from the brink to the water's edge 5 but, is soon lost, 
between the woody hills. — From the entrance to this 
place, is half a mile, all the way a gradual descent; 
Fishers'-hall, being situated 450 feet below the high- 
est point, in this wild romantic region. 

Returning back a little way, a path to the right, 
leads through a fine wood of lofty trees. The views of 
the country become more extensive as the ground 
rises, till you come to a building, on the brink of a 
precipice, and on the highest part of the hill, called 

Moivbray-point : 

Here, indeed, a most noble scenery opens. A 
vast extent of plain, enriched with corn, meadows, 
and groves J a tract of unequalled beauty and fertility. 
In front, are Hambleton-hills, with the Scar, call- 
ed "The White-mare;'' the town of Thirsk, almost 
under it ; and. North- Allerton, to the right. The whole 
vale is finely scattered with t^wns, churches, and 
villages. York-minster is seen, distinctly, at the dis« 
tance of more than SO miles. Mr. Gilpin observes, 
that', — ** Here nature hath wrought, with her broadest 

y 2 



256 MASH AM. 

pencil J the parts are ample^j the composition perfect- 
ly correct : I scarce remember, any where, an ex- 
tensive view so full of beauties and so free from 
faults. The vale, of which this view is composed, 
hath not yet entirely lost it's ancient name, Thejeace 
of Moxobraj/, This vale extends from York, almost to 
the confines of Durham ; is adorned by the Swale, 
and theUre^ and is, certainly, one of the noblest 
tracts of country, of the kind, in England.'* 

The improvements of this place, which include 
about 150 acres, were begun by the late William 
Aislabie, esq., about the year 1746. 

On a hill, behind this building, called " Castle-h ill/' 
are the remains-of an encampment,^evidently roman . 
it's form is a square, defended, on one side, by the 
steep of the hill \ and, on the other, by a deep ditch, 
on the outside. The ruins of the Prtetorium, shew 
themselves in a heap of stones. 

Three miles north of Hackfall, is 
MASHAM; 

A town, which anciently belonged to the lords 
Scroop ; from whicK family it passed, by marriage, 
into that of Scroop, of Bolton; and, afterwards into 
the ancient family of Danby : William Danby, esq.^ 
>^hose elegant seat, and extensive gardens, are about 



TTEST-TANFIELD. 257 

a •mile distant, being lord of this manor. In the 
church, which is a very neat building, is an organ; 
also, several monuments, to the memory of persons 
belonging to the families of Danhy, Wyvil, &c.. 
This town hath a market on Wednesdays; and, a fair 
for sheep and cattle, on the 17 th and 18 th of Sept,. 

About two miles north-east of Hackfall, i& 

WEST-TANFIELD; 

Which, with another village, called EAST-TAN- 
FIELD, not far distant, was, before the conquest, ijti- 
the possession of Torckil, and Archil^ probably danes., 
William, the conqueror, gave both these villages ta 
Allan, earl of Richmond ; they afterwards became the- 
property of the family of Fitzhugh, temp* Henry 1V.» 
This family bore for their arms, azure, three chevro- 
Dels, brased in the base of the escutcheon ; and, a^ 
chiefi or. 

Robert, lord Marmion, married the heiress of 
this family; and, succeeded to these lordships. John, 
lord Marmion, having been very serviceable in the- 
wars of Scotland, obtained a licence to make a castjp 
of his house, situate in Tanfield-wood.* This J ohn„ 
died in the year 13225 and, was succeeded by Robert, 
lord Marmion. 

A VISE, sister and heiress of Robert, married sir 

* The porter's- lodge, remains to this day; of which, mr> Grose lus 
given a view. 

Y8 



258 WEST-TANFIELB. 

John Grey; whose son, John, lord Grey, died seiz^^ 
of these estates^ 

The seat of Philip Fitzhugh, esq., In King- George 
county, in Virginia, is at this day, called ^larmion. 

On Thornborough-moor, near Tanfield, are the 
remains of three ancient enclosures, all of the same 
dimensions ; the most perfect of the three, is situated 
at the west end of the moor, and, is of a circular form>. 
about 540 feet in diameter ; and consists, first, of a 
high rampart, 42 feet in breadth ; secondly, a ditch^ 
36 feet wide; within which, is a flat area, 300 feet in 
diameter. -^ 







Bishop Gibson, in his edition of Ca7nde)i^ Bnian- 
nia, supposes such enclosures to have been tilting-cir- 
cles; and, gives an engraving of one of them, with 



"WEST-TANFIELD. 259 

two warriors engaging in a tournamciit within it. The 
terraces were allotted for the spectators, who sat round 
those arctic amphitlreatres : the entrances, placed op- 
posite each other, for the champions to enter at.. 
Several tumuli, near these enclosures, may possibly 
cover the remains of warriors, slain in those tourna- 
ments. 

In Tanfield-church, are the monuments of two ladies j 
one of whom, has the arms of Fitzhugh on her man- 
tle. A knight in armor, with his lady;, supposed to-be 
the menument of John, lord Marmion. In the same 
aisle, is a fine alabaster tomb, with a man in armor, 
and a lady near him ; said to be the monument of Ro^ 
bert, lord Marmion, and his wife, Anne, daughter of 
Fitzhugh, temp. Henry UL, or Edward I-. 




W^ goldesburgh;. 



STAGE VL 

Marrogatey to Goldeshurg.'^Rihstoner^DeigTi^ 
ton. — Cowthorpe.-^Hunsingore.^ 

GOLDESBURGH;* 

. VERY pleasant village, tvro miles from Knares^ 
brough, and sixteen from York. This manor, one^ 
mile square, containing eight carucates of land 3 with 
a wood, twelve furlongs in length, and four in breadth^ 
was held, before- the conquest, byMerlesuan; after 
that event, by Ralph Pagnel, whose servant Hubert,, 
20th of William L, had here one carucate, seven vil^ 
leins, and half a fishery,^ at the rent of five shillinge^ 
and four-pence; It afterwards came into the possession: 
©f John de Buscy, whoheld it of the king, in capite;: 
and, who granted the same to Richard, afterwards na?^ 
med De Goldesburgh. 

Sir John Goldesburgh, knt., died about \S9>6 : He 
had issue, Richard. . ; 

Richard Goldesburgh, esq.^ married 5- and had issuer 
Richard and Thomas. 

Richard Goldesburgh^ esq., married Elizabeth^ 

» Tber^ js^a WwPi calUd Ctoldb^rg, 36 miles west of Breslair* 



GOLBESBUROir. 261 

daughter of sir Henry Vavasour, of Hazelwoodj and 
had issue, Richard, &:c.. 

Richard Goldesburgh, esq., married Anne, daugh- 
ter of sir William Ingilby, of Ripley, knt.j and had 
issue, Thomas and Jane, who died young. 

Thomas Goldesburgh, esq., married Jane, daugh- 
ter of Thomas Boynton, of Aclam ; and had issue, 
William, Richard, Ralph, Eleanor, &c.. 

William Goldesburgh, esq., married a daughter of 
mr. Peter Slingsby, of Bilton-park; by whom, he had 
issue, Anne, his sole daughter and heiress, married to 
' Edmond Keighley, of NeM'hall, near Otley, esq.. 

Richard Goldesburgh, esq., second son of Thomas, 
and heir-male to his brother, William, married Eli- 
zabeth, daughter of mr. Henry Johnson, of Walton- 
Head ; he was living in the year 1585 j and had issue 
Susan, Jane, Elizabeth, and Johan. 

Maude de Goldesburgh, was prioress of Nun-Monk* 
ton, 1421. Matilda, daughter of sir Richard Goldes- 
burgh, knt., married Henry Arthington, esq., temp. 
Henry VII.. Anna de Goldesburgh, wa^ prioress of 
Sinyngthwaite, 1529. 

Talbot Goldesburgh, esq., descended from a young- 
er branch of this family, went over with king Williara 
III., into Irela|id, and, wasat thesiege of Limmerick: 
He had two sons, John and William ; John, settled 
in the county of Longford, a descendant of whom, 
was at Knaresbrough, in the year 1785, or 1786. 
The family of Goldesburgh, was succeeded here by 



262 GOLDESBURGH. 

that of Hutton, but, whether by marriage or purchase^ 
^oes not appear. 

Sir Richard Hutton, of Goldesburgh, knt,, one of 
thejustices of the common pleas, at Westminster. . 

Sir Richard Hutton, son of sir Richard, was high* 
sheriff of Yorkshire, in the igth and 20th years of 
Charles L; colonel of a regiment of foot, for the wa» 
pentakeof Ciaroj governor of Knaresbrough-castlej 
and member of parliament, for Knaresbrough: A man» 
endowed with every qualification that constitutes a 
brave and gallant officer* He married, first, Ann, 
daughter of sir William Wentworth, bart^ sister ta , 
the earl of Strafford; and had issue, Richard, andAnn^ 
married to Anthony Byerley, esq.— and, to his second 
wife, Elizabeth, daughter of sir John Jackson, of 
Hickleton, knt., widow and relict of Francis William- 
son, of Nottinghamshire 5 by her, he had no issue* 
After the battle of Marston-moor, 1644, Manchester's 
horse were cantoned in this neighbourhood j amongst 
whom, was Cromwell's lieutenant, Whalley, who took 
up his quarters at Goldesburgh-hall, sir Richard, the 
owner, being then with his regiment besieged in York.. 
After the surrender of that city, to the forces of 
parliament, the garrison were conducted,, accor- 
ding to the articles of capitulation, by a convoy of 
seven troops of horse, by way of Knaresbrough, ta 
Otley : As they passed near Goldesburgh, Whalley met 
them ; and, entering into discourse with the officers,, 
concerning; the late battle ^ after some time,, he ad>- 



GOLBE5BURGH, 263 

dressed himself to sir Richard Hutton, entreating him 
to leave the army, and return with him to his own 
liouse and family, at Goldesburgh 5 but, not choosing 
to trust himself in the power of an avowed enemy ; 
and, being firmly attached to the royal cause, he passed 
by his house,* his lady, and family 5 and, after some 
months spent in toilsome marches, and continual a* 
larms, was slain at Sherborn-fight, October 15, 1645. 

Ann, daughter of sir Richard Hutton, marrying 
Anthony Byerley, esq.; with her, this estate passed 
into that family. 

The honorable Robert Byerley, married Mary, 
daughter of Philip Wharton, ofEdhngton, esq.; and 
bad issue, Robert, Philip, Ann, Elizabeth, and Mary. 

From theByerleys, this estate passed, by purchase, 
io Daniel Lascelles, esq.; after whose decease, it de- 
volved to his brother, Edwin, lord Harewood; and, 
is now the residence of James Sfeirkey, jcsq.. 

Goldesburgh'hall ; 

A LARGE and noble structure, built by the Hut- 
tons, at least 200 years ago, standing in the middle 
of a spacious court-yard, encompassed by a reryhigh 



• Manchester's horse, being quartered In the villages betwixt Knareau 
trough and York, Goldesburgh must, at that time, have been in a 
state of defence ; or Whalley could not, with safety, hare remained 
^ere, yriHau two miles of Knaresbrough, theua gsurrison for the king. 



264' GOLDESBURGH. 

wall, and accessible only through a strong and lofty 
gate-way: A striking specimen of the mode of building, 
even at that time, when the hospitable mansion still 
preserved in it's form, some trac«s of caution and ap- 
pearance of strength. The STAIR-CASE, is ornamented 
with paintings of landscapes, interspersed with ruina 
and military trophies. The dining and drawing- 
rooms, are nearly of the same dimensions, 40 feet by 
30, including the recesses ; there is, also, a smaller 
DRAWING-ROOM, 26 feet by ^0; from each of which, 
is a very pleasing view of verdant fields and shrubbe- 
riest bounded by wood. 

Every capital mansion in these northern parts, was 
anciently either a fortress, or had near it a building^ 
calculated for a defence, as a strong hold to flee to, in. 
times of danger — Many of them, consisted of one 
square tower, with an exploratory turret at each cor- 
ner. The mansions of Ribstone and Plumpton, were 
thus defended. Goldesburgh- tower most probably 
stood upon a piece of insulated ground, 105 feet long 
and 72 broad, situated on the south side of the village. 

The church 

Is a rectory, dedicated to saint Maiy ; rated, in the 
king's books, at ^1. Is. Lord Harewood is patron. 

The arching, oyer the south door, is composed of 



GOLDESBURGH. 965 

two semi-circles 4 the one, decorated with a row of 
griffon's heads; the other, composed of zigzag work, 
(evidently saxon) well executed. In the east window, 
are the arms of the Goldesburghs, Huttons, Byerleys, 
&c., finely stained on glass. Within the rails of the 
altar, on the pavement, is an inscription, to the me- 
mory of Robert Weeks; obit, 17I6. Above this, 
on the north wall, is an elegant monument, to the 
memory of Zachary Blake; obit, 1757. On the 
floor of the chancel, is an inscription, round the mar- 
gin of a flat stone, without any date, to the memory 
of Dame Eve de Goldesburgh, third daughter 
of sir Walter Bickerdike. Here are also several grave- 
stones of black marble ; on the top of each, are neatly 
cut the arms of Byerley, and the following inscriptions : 

the HON. ROBERT BYERLEY; OBIT, 1714. 
MARY BYERLEY; OBIT, 17^- 
ROBERT BYERLEY; OBIT, 1729- 
PHILIP BYERLEY; OBIT, 1734. 
ANNE BYERLEY; OBIT, 1755. 

On the south wall, is a beautiful monument, to the 
memory of Elizabeth and Anne Byerley, the 
last of this family. The figures of Faith and Charity, 
adorning the urn of the deceased, are finely executed, 
and do honor to mr, Wilton, the artist. 

A neat monument of white marble, to the memory 
of Daniel Lascelles, esq., who died May 26, 
1784; aged 70 years. 

Z 



^66 KIBSTOKE. 

Near this monument, under an elegant arch, is 
an altar- tomb, to the memory of 12 persons, of the 
Goldesburgh family, whose names are inscribed on 
each side. On the north side, also, in a small recess, 
formerly a private chapel, are the figures of two 
knights templars, in the usual position, with legs across, 
and completely armed ; on their shields, the arms of 
Goldesburgh — azure, a cross patonce. On the out- 
side of the steeple, are several shields of arms— on the 
south side, is Goldesburgh, impailing a maunch j on 
the west, Goldesburgh, impailing three bars ; on the 
north side, Goldesburgh, impailing three bustards^ 
rising. 

One of the finest views this country affords, is 
from the highest part of Goldesburgh-field, a level 
and well-cultivated country, bounded by hilly grounds, 
affording all the variety of a rich landscape j the prin- 
cipal objects in which, are Allerton-park, the tower, 
and Claro-hillj Hay-park, Conyng-garth, Scriven- 
hall and park, the towns of Knaresbrough and Harro- 
gate, and Harlow-hill, all ranged in a semi-circular 
"viewj behind which, the mount of saint Michael 
presents itself, beautifully mantled with wood. 

Two miles from Goldesburgh, is 
RIBSTONE; 
The seat of sir Henry Goodricke, bart.. This vast* 



HIBSTONE. 967 

noTof Ripestavit* consisting of five carucates of land, 
"was held, before the conquest, by Turbur and Merle- 
suan, probably danes : After the conquest, it was in 
the possession of William de Percy, and Ralph Pagnel. 
Robert, lord Ross,t became possessed of it, in the 
reign of Henry lll.j and, in the year 1224, settledthis 
estate upon the knights templars j who enjoyed it, till 
the dissolution of the order ; when it was granted to the 
renowned Charles Brandon, duke of Suffolk ^ of 
whom it was purchased, by Henry Goodricke, esq., 
in the year 1542. 

The family of Goodricke, bear for their arms- 
argent, on a fesse gules, between two lions, passant j 
guardant, sable ; a fleur-de-lis, or, between two cres- 
cents of the field, Crest-^Out of a ducal coronet, 
or; a demi lion, issuant ermines, armed and langued^ 
gules ; and, holding in his paws, a battle-axe, proper, 
helved, or. Supporters — Two naked boys. Motto-^ 
.*' Fortior leone Justus.'* 

This ancient family flourished, for several genera- 
tions, at Nortingley, in Somersetshire. Henry Good- 
ricke, third son of Robert Goodricke, of Nortingley 

• Domseday-booki 

f In the year 1C14, Robert de Ross, Peter de Bruls, and Richard d9 
Percy, reduced the city and county of York, to the obedience of the 
dauphin of France, 

Z 2 



Q68 



niBSTONJB. 



married the daughter of Thomas Stickford, esq., in 
Lincolnshire, and settled in that county; where, after 
six generations, William Goodricke, of East-Kirby, 
m Lincolnshire, married to his second wife, Jane, the 
heiress of mr. Williamson, of Boston; by whom, he 
had three sons, and a daughter; the sons were John, 
Thomas, and Henry, ancestors to the present baronet} 
which Henry, purchased Ribstone, and other lands 
in Yorkshire, of the duke of Suffolk : He married a 
daughter of sir Christopher Rawson; and died, in the 
year 1556; and, was succeeded in his Yorkshire estate, 
by his son Richard, who was high-sheriff of Yorkshire, 
in the year 1579. He married Clare, daughter of 
Richard Norton, of Norton-Conyers, esq.; and, was 
succeeded in his estate, by his son Richard, who was 
high-sheriff, in the year 1591 ; and married Meriola, 
daughter of William, lord Eure. He died, in the 
year 1601; and, was succeeded in his estate, by his 
eldest son, Henry Goodricke, knight; who married 
Jane, daughter of John Savile, knt; and had issue, 
Savile, John, Francis, and several daughters. 

Sir John Goodricke, knt, succeeding his fa- 
ther, was advanced to the dignity of a baronet ; Au- 
gust 14, 1641. He took up arms, in the cause of 
Charles L; and, at the attack on Bradford, in York- 
shire, December 18, 1642, had his horse killed un- 
der him, and himself dangerously wounded. He was 
afterwards taken, and imprisoned, first, at Manchester, 
and then in the tower of London; from whence, be 



RIBSTONE. !909 

made his escape, into France. His estate was seques- 
tered, and compounded for, at the price of 13431. 10s.. j 
By his first lady, Catherine, daughter of Stephen 
Norcliffe, esq., he had sir Henry, his successor. By 
his second, who was Elizabeth, daughter of Alexander 
Smith, and widow of William, lord Fairfax, he had 
sir John, who succeeded his brother. 

Sir Hen^y, the second baronet, born in 1642, 
was envoy extraordinary, from Charles the second, 
king of England, to Charles the second, king of Spain; 
and pri vy councellor to king William the third. This 
gentleman, with lord Danby, and the duke of Devon- 
shire, had frequent meetings, at Ribstone-hall, io 
, concert the time, method, and means, of bringing 
about the revolution, which happened in 1688; and, 
was one of that party of lords and gentlemen, who 
seized the city of York, for the use of William, prince 
of Orange, November 22, of the same year*. He 
married Maiy, daughter of colonel William Legge, 
and sister to George, lord Dartmouth ; but, died with- 
out issue 3 and, was succeeded by his half-brother. 

Sm John Goodricke, the third baronet, mar- 
ried Sarah, daughter of sir Richard Hopkins, knt, 
seijeant at law; by whom, he had five sons, and five 
daughters: He died, 1705; and, was succeeded by his 
eldest son. 

• See the Gentleman's Magazine, for February, 178^. Memoirs of 
fir JoUn Reresbjr, p. 286. 

Z3 



^70 ItlJBStOKE. 

Sir Henry GoodriCke, the fourth baronet, who 
married Mary, only child of Tobias Jenkins, esq.j by 
whom, he had four sons, and four daughters: He 
died, 1738; and, was succeeded by his eldest son. 

Sir John Goodricke, fifth baronet, who was 
envoy to the court of Sweden, tempt, George II.5 and 
one of his majesty's most honorable privy council : 
He married miss Mary Johnson, a relation of Robert, 
lord Bingley ; and, had issue, one son, Henry, and a 
daughter, who died in her infancy. He died, August 
S, 1789, aged 82; his lady died, March 4, 179^. Hen- 
ry married a lady of family, in Holland; and, died in 
the year 1784; having had issue, John, who died 
1786; Henry, and three daughters, Harriot, Mary, 
and Elizabeth. 

Sir Henry Goodricke, the sixth baronet, marri- 
ed miss Fortescue, second daughter of the late right 
hon. James Fortescue, and neice to the earl of Cler* 
Inont : He died, March 22, 1 802 ; leaving one only son, 
Henry, the present baronet. 

Ribstone-hall ; 

Situated on a fine eminence, nearly encompassed 
by the river Nidd; and, commanding a wide, exten- 
sive, and beautiful prospect. All the apartments are 
well finished ; and, throughout the whole building, 
elegance and utility are every where united. In the 
SALOON, are the following pictures : 

The virgin, at work, attended by angels 5 copied 



RIfiSTONE. 271 

by Pietro Angeletti, from an original, by Guido, in 
the pope's domestic chapel, at Monte Cavallo, in 
Rome. The descent of the cross : This picture ex- 
hibits one of the most interesting groups of figures, 
imagination can conceive ; copied by Sigr.Lud. Sterne, 
from an original in the church Trinatata de Monte, i n 
Rome, by Daniel de Volterra. The rape of Helen, by 
Guido; in the palace of the princeof Spada, in Rome- 
One of Helen's attendants, is employed in carrying a fa- 
vorite little dog ; another, a casket, supposed of jew- 
els; whilst a slave is engaged, in conducting a squirrel ; 
Attention to such subjects, on such an occasion, 
proves a levity of character, very well becoming a la- 
dy in a state of elopement. The death of Dido, by 
Guercino, in the same palace as the former— -Here 
Dido is represented, at the instant she has thrown 
herself on a sword; her sister and others, running 
in distress, to her assistance : Cupid, having done 
the mischief, flies away ; and, the fleet of ^Eneas, is 
seen at a distance, in full sail. The above two copies, 
are the work of Sigr. Francesco Smuglandientz, pen- 
sioner to the king of Poland. Bacchus and Ariadne, 
by Guido, in the pope's collection, at the capital, in 
Rome. Ariadne is supposed to have been abandoned 
by Theseus, and discovered by Bacchus, who not on- 
ly relieves her from her distressed situation, but, as is 
well known, becomes her lover: The figures that 
attend Bacchus, are such as are supposed to be his at- 
tributes. 



272 RIESTOHE. 

A copy of Aurora, by Guide, in the palace of 
Russigliose, in Rome: Appolo is represented in his 
chariot, drawn by four horses, and the hours dancing 
most gracefully round him. A copy of Aurora, by 
Guercino, in Villa Ludovicej belonging to princ^ 
Prombinio, in Rome: Here Aurora, herself, is seated 
in her chariot, with the hours before her, as putting 
out the stars: Behind her, is the figure of an old man, 
meant to represent night. A copy of Ihe Aldobrandini 
marriage ; an antique painting, found in the baths of 
Titus, in Rome ; now in the villa of prince Aldobran- 
dini j which gives name to the work. The marriage 
of Helen and Paris; taken from a most elegant bas- 
relief, on an antique vase* 

In the drawing-room, are several good pictures, 
of the ancestors of the family. 

In the CHAPEL, are the following monuments: 
On a tablet of white marble, fixed against the wall, 
is an inscription, in latin, to the memory of Richard 
Goodricke, esq., his lady, and a numerous issue j 
date, l6o2. 

On the opposite wall, is a monument, to the memo- 
ry of sir Henry Goodricke j who died, in the year 17 SB* 

On the front of the altar- table, is inscribed : 

This ancient church of mnt Andrex^f 'was repaired 



RIBSTONE# 



S7S 



and embellished, by sir Barry Goodricke, in the \2th of 
king William, our deliverer from popery and slavery; 
t)ho, ^ith Mary, his 'beloved wife, design to be inter- 
red, in God's appointed time, in the new vault, at the 
'West end of this church. She was daughter of colonel 
William Legge, and sister to George, lord Dartmouth; 
and, has lived with her husband, in great union, near 
36 years. 1703. 

On each side of the altar-table, is a tomb, supposed 
to cover the remains of two knights templars. 

In the chapel-yard, is a very curious sepulchral 
monument, of the standard-bearer to the ninth 
roman legion ; which was dug up in Trinity-gardens, 
near Micklegate, in York, in the year 1688. In his 
right-hand is the ensign of a cohort ; and, in his left, a 
measure for corn. It was communicated to the pub- 
lic, by mr.Thoresby, in the Philosaphical Transacti- 
ons ; and, from thence, inserted in the late edition of 
Cambden's Britannia* 



S74 



EIBSTONE. 




Sffii 




LDVCCIVS.^ 
BVOT'RVFJ I 

JVVS-VlETSr 1 



The inscription includes the name and office of the 
person ; and, the usual abbreviation, H. S. E., for ^ic 
Situs Est; i. e., Here is placed. 



RIBSTONE. 275 

This place is remarkable for the produce of a deli- 
cious apple, called the " Ribstone-park pippin," 
The original tree was raised from a pippin, brought 
from France; from which tree, such numbers have 
bfeen propagated, that they are now to be met with in 
almost every orchard in this, and many other coun- 
ties. Notwithstanding the increase, the fruit still 
retains it's value, being preferred before avery other 
apple this country produces. The old tree is yet 
standing; and, in the year 1787, produced six bush- 
els of fruit. 

On the left hand, as you approach the house, is the 
much-admired ORIENTAL platanus, whose princi- 
pal limb^ extends 44 feet from the bole : And, near the 
chapel, is a large mulberry-tree. 

On the ripe^ or bank of the river, here was, former- 
ly, a marble quarry ; from which, probably, the vil- 
lage derives it's uzmQ-^B^ipe-sten, 

Two miles from Ribstone, is 

NORTH-DEIGHTON :* 
In this village, on the estate of sir John Ingilby, 

* It bath been the custom of migrators, in all ages, to give names to 
the lands, in tlieir new settlements, similar to those left behind tliem, 
in their native country ; hence this, and tlie adjoining village, may have, 
in some remote age, been the property of a brabantian chieftain j as 
tiiere is a village of th« same name, in that province. 



£76 RIBSTONE. 

bart., is a very large tumulus j the base of which, is 
near 500 feet in circumference 5 and, the height of 
the slope, about 70 feet : On the top, is a flat area, 27 
feet long by 13 broad. About a quarter of a mile 
from hence, is another tumulus 5 the foundation of 
which, appears to have been laid with large uniiewn 
stones j a custom, peculiar to the danes.* There were 
some other tumuli in the neighbourhood j of which* 
now no vestige remains, except their names, which 
are still retained in the fields where they stood ; viz., 
Peesbury-hill, Maunberry-hill, Ingmanthorg-hill, and 
Ingbarrow-hill. On viewing the circumjacent coun- 
try, it is manifest, that no situation could be more 
peculiarly adapted, for the meeting of hostile armies. 
At what time any such conflict happened, or who 
were the contending nations, do not appear 5 yet, it 
may probably have been one of those many engage- 
ments, which happened in this neighbourhood, during 
the saxon heptarchy. 

*' The stranger shall come and build here, and reffiove tlie 
** heaped-up earth : A half-worn sword shall rise before him ; 
" and, bending over it^ he will say, *These aretheanns of chiefs 
'* of old, but their names are not in song." Ossian, 

Monuments of this kind, are of the remotest 

« The danes obtained a complete victory, over the saxons and scQts, 
jiot far from the river Ouse ; m the ye^ lOJO. 



KIRK-DEIGHTON. 277 

antiquity; tlieywere sometimes raised over the re- 
mains of persons of the highest dignity ; and, often- 
times, by the soldiers, over the bodies of their fellows 
slain in battle; it being a custom amongst the nothern 
nations, that every surviving soldier should bring, a 
helmet-full of earth, for this purpose. These monu- 
ments, and often the places where they were erectedf 
were named after the pei-son or persons there interred. 
Of this kind, was the tomb of Hamlet, as described by 
Saxo; " Insignis ejus sepultura^ ac nomine ca77tpus 
cpudjustiam extat,"' Which field, we are told, is call« 
ed '*Am let's Hede," to this day. 

•Half a mile from hence, is 
KIRK-DEIGHTON: 

In this manor, before the conquest, were 16 ca- 
I'ucates of land, a church, and a wood one mile square. 
After the conquest, Ralph Pagnel had 12, and Erneis 
de Burun four carucates here. It afterwards came in- 
to the possession of the barons Trussebuts ; from whom, 
it descended to the Ross's, of Ingmanthorp; and, by 
them, to the Manners's, eark of Rutland. Many of 
the families of Ross, Thornton, and Palliser, were 
interred in this church. Over the south door, are 
the arms of Ross, cut in stone. Above the entrance 
into the chancel, are two shields of arms ; on one of 
which, are those of Mannei-s, aftenvards dukes of Rut^ 
land; on the other, are those of Manners and Ross, 
2 A 



^78 INGMANTHOR?-. 

^vith 14 other qnarterings, displaying the principal 
inter-marriages of the Manners' family, to the time 
that sir Robert Manners married Eleanor, sister of 
Edmund, lord Ro«s ; whose son and heir, George, in 
right of his m.other, became lord Ross. This nobleman 
accompanied Henry VIII. into France, and attended 
that m.onarch at the sieges of Terrouen and Tournay ; 
which expedition seems to be alluded to, by the re- 
presentation of two fortified towns, under the shields 
of arms. 

This church is a rectory; of which, colonel Thorn- 
ton is patron. It is a neat building, with a very hand- 
some spire, which is seen at a great distance. On the 
out- walls and steeple, are some very old figures cut in 
stone, representing a man, an eagle, and a dragon, with 
several others, of uncouth shape' and hideous aspect. 

INGMANTHORP, 

About a mile distant, was also in the possession of 
the barons Trussebuts; from whom, it also descended 
to the lord Ross ; a branch of this noble family made 
it their seat, for many generations. Here was a chapel, 
dedicated to saint Mar} 5 in which, sir Robert Ross 
was interred, January 21, 139^. The site of the 
house, gardens, Src, may yet be traced, in a field, 
caUed "Hall-garth." 



tOWTHORP. 27^ 

About four miles from Deighton, is 

COWTHORP: 

At the time of the general survey, 20th of Willi- 
am L, there were in Coletorp^ three carucates of land, 
and three villeins j held, by Godefrid, of William d« 
Percys a church, and a wood half a mile square. 
The whole manor was one mile long, and half a mile 
broad. It was afterwards held, by Adam Fitz-John 
de Walkingham, for the fourth part of a knight's fee, 
of Robert de Plumpton, who held it of the heirs of 
Percy. 

On the 13th of February, 1455, licence was grant- 
ed to Brian RouclifF, patron of this church, to demo- 
lish and prostrate the same \ and then, to erect one 
at another place ; because the said old parish church 
was too far distant from the town : accordingly, the 
present structure was completed, and consecrated on 
August the 17th, 1458. The first rector that occurs, 
for the old church, is Richard de Roukesburgh, insti- 
tuted in May, 1289. The church is dedicated to saint 
Michael ; and valued, in the king*s books, at 381. 2s. 
5d., In the choir, on a large flat stone, are the effigies 
of a man and woman, bearing betwixt them, the mo- 
del of a church. This appears to be in memory of 
Brian Roucliff, one of the barons of the exchequer; 
and his lady, the founders of this church. 
2 A 2 



S80 COWTHORP. 

Guy Rawcliff became possessed of this estate, 
by marrying Johan, sister and heiress of John Burgh, 
or Brough : The families of Snowsdale, Hammerton, 
and Walmsley, have successively been lords of this 
place. 

Robert, the sev enth lord Petre, married Catherine;- 
daughter of Bartholomew, and sole heiress of her 
brother, Francis Walmsley, esq. ; by which marriage, 
this estate came into that noble family ; Robert Ed» 
ward, the ninth lord Petre, being the present owner. 

In the east window, aire the folio wii!ig arm?, beautiful- 
ly stained on glass : viz., Plumpton, Hammerton, 
Ross, of Ihgmanthorp, Roucliff, andBuRGH,-— 
In the choir, Ingilby ahd Roucliff, Ross and 
Burgh. — On the south side, Roucliff and Gore. 
•—On the north side, Ashton, Hammerton, and 
Tempest. — On the sides of the font, are those of 
Plumpton, Roucliff, Ross^ and Hammerton. 
—And, in the window of the steeple, are those of 
Roucliff : — In the chancel, are several of the same 
shields of arms, repeated, with the addition of those 
of Ashton, and Standish. 

At a very small distance from the church, are thfe 
remains of an enormous tree, called 

The Cowthorp'Oak : 
Tradition speaks of this oak being in decay, for 



COWTHORP.* 981 

many generations ; which may serve to confute the 
common assertion, that an oak is one century in grow- 
4ng5 another, in perfection; and, afhird, in decline. 
By a monument, erected at theexpence of lord 
De Lawarr, in New-Forest, Hants., in the y.ear 1745^ 
we are informed, that some remains of the oak, from 
whence the arrow glanced, that slew king William II., 
was existing, in the remembrance of persons then 
living; that event happening 698 years ago; and, we 
naturally suppose the oak a grown one, when that ac* 
cident happened. We may, from hence, reasonably 
compute, that the life of the Cowthorp-Oak, may at-* 
tain to 1,000 years. 

It is certain, that of all the claims to long life, in 
the vegetable world, the oak and the yew, from their 
slow advances, and solid texture, seem to stand the 
foremost in the scale of duration. 

It is said, of the celebrated oaks of Winfield-Chace, 
in Cumberland, and those at Wellbeck, in Notting- 
hamshire, that a coach may easily drive within their 
boles ; but, concerning the oak now in question, it is 
evident, from the measure, that, supposing it hollow- 
ed for the purpose, two coaches might pass together 
through it's bole. 

The leading branch fell, by a storm, in the year 
1718; which, being measured with accuracy, was 
found to contain five tons, and two feet, of wood. 

Before this accidental mutilation, it's branches 
are said to have extended their shade over half an 
2 A 3 



28S tOWTiiORP* 

acre of ground. Thus constitutiiig, in a single tree, 
almost a wood itself ; which reminds us of the anci- 
ent sjtrambre, that arrested Xerxes to admire it, when* 
on his military march; and, uhder whose spreading 
branches, he and his court reposed themselves. 

The present circumference of this oak, close by 
the ground, is 20 ydrds ; and, it's principal limb ek- 
tends 15 yards from the bole. **When compared with 
this, (says doctor Hunter), all other trees are children 
of the forest." 

It Seeins, that Cbwthorp, in former ages, could 
boast of having deer, equally superior to the rebt of 
their species, as this oak is to all the trees of the forest* 

In the wood, not far from this village, anno 1749, 
was found, by some persons digging, about four feet 
deep, the head of a stag, with the horns entire, of so 
uncommon a size, as to excite the curiosity of great 
nurribers of people, who flocked from all parts of the 
neighbourhood to view them; they m^sured, from 
the tip of one hotn to the other, fail six feet They 
were some time in the possession of the revererid mr* 
Nuttall, ofCowthorp; and, afterwards became the 
property of a persofii *at York ; from whence, they were 
sent, with some other curiosities, to London; and, 
there sold by auction. The horns were purchased by 
mr. John Hunter, and deposited in that gentlemati's 
valuable museum ; which museum, after his decease, 
was purchased by government. 



About half a mile from Cowthorp, on the oppo- 
site side of the river Nidd, is 

HUNSINGORE: 

In the manor of Huhingourey 20tli of Willmm !►, 
Ernek de Bururtj a norm an chief, had five carucates, 
and three oxgangs, of taxable land ; nine villeins, three 
borders, and three ploughs ; woodland, two furlongs 
long, and one broad; valued, in the whole, at 50 
shillings. After which, this manor became part of 
the possessions of the knights templars. Since the 
suppression of that order, this, with several other 
estates hereabouts, have belonged to the family of 
Goodricke; whose ancient seat was, at this place, 
situated on a mountain ; the sides of which, were 
cut in terraces, rising near 10 feet above each other; 
here were four of these terraces, above which, on a 
flat area, stood the mansion, commanding a very ex- 
tensive prospect. Tradition says, this house was de- 
stroyed in the civil wars of Charles I., which is very 
probable, as it is well known sir John Goodricke took 
a very active part on the side of royalty, in those pe- 
rilous times. 

The church here, which hath been lately rebuilt, 
is a rectory, dedicated to saint John, the baptist; rated, 
in the king's books, at 5l. 17s. SJd, Sir Henry Good- 
ricke, bart., is patron. 



S84 rOLLYFOOT. 



STAGE VIL 



Harrogate^ to Plumpton. — Spoffbrd. — Wether^ 
by. — Thorp-Arch. — -Bramham-park. — ^Ua^ 
slewood. — Tadcaster. 



JL HREE miles from Harrogate, on the right of the 
road, leading from thence to Plumpton, is the vil- 
lage of 

FOLLYFOOT,* 

Wheue a family of that name anciently resided, 
till the reign of Henry V.; when the heiress, Oliva 
de Folifaite, married John, ancestor of the present 

EARL MOIRA. 

About iialf a mile Avest of the village, stands 

Rudding-hall; 
Commanding averyfine viewof the surrounding 

♦ FoUtf a broad sword; and Feyt, an action, "We frequent!}' find 
names given to battles, in ancient times, expressive of some particular 
circumstance, relative to each; as, the field of battle-axes, fought at 
Hackendown, in Kent, in the year 853; the battle of the spurs, is 
Trance, 1513, &c.. 



FOLLYFOOT. S9o 

country. This house, about 60 years ago, was the 
property of mr. Williamson, of Wetherby; from 
whom it passed, by purchase, to mr. Craddock, and 
he sold it to mr. James Collins, who added much to 
the building, laid out the pleasure-grounds, planted 
the avenues, and built a very curious rustic gate-wa}', 
consisting of three arches, large and lofty. The beauty 
of this portal, was much increased by the ivy, which 
grew up on each side in great abundance, insinu- 
ated it's branches into every cavity, and spread it's foil- 
age all over the wall. It is much to be regretted, 
that this singular pile was blown down, in the year 1790^ 
At this house resided, successively, the reverend itir. 
Thomas Lamplugh, Brice Fisher, esq., lord Lincoln^ 
general Mostyn, and the countess of Conyngham. 

From mr. Collins's representatives, the house, with 
500 acres of land, passed, by purchase, to Thomas 
Wilson, esq., brother to the bishop of Bristol; after 
whose decease, it was purchased, in the year 1788» 
by Alexander, lord Loughbrough; from whom, it 
descended to James ^ earl of Rosslynn ; who sold this 
estate, to the honorable William Gordon : That gen- 
tleman took down the old house, and begun the erec- 
tion of the present elegant mansion, in the year 1807 : 
The length, is 114 feet 5 and, the width, 69 feet. In 
the front, is a very handsome portico, supported by 
pillars, of the doric order. 



286 PLUMPTON^. 

The HALL, is 20 feet, by 20. 
The DINING-ROOM, IS 40, by 20. 
The DRAWING-ROOM, 40, by 20. 
The STAIR-CASE, 25, by 20. 

Half a mile west of Rudding-hall, is a place, 
called 

Bicker 'fiat ;* 

And, near it, a tumulus, 150 feet in circumfer- 
ence. It is called 

A lexander" s-hillj 

But, for what reason, none can tell 5 nor is there 
the least tradition concerning it. 

The name of the village, and also this piece of 
ground, seem to point out this, as a place where a 
battle hath formerly been fought 5 and, that this tumu- 
lus may possibly contain the remains of some chief of 
ancient times, whose history hath been long forgotten. 

*' A tree stands alone on the hill, and marks the slumbering 
<* connal. The leaves whirl round with the wind, and strew 
** tiie grave of Uie dead^" Oman* 

PLUMPTON; 

{Plompf Danish; rude and wild.) Such, undoubt- 
edly, was the appearance of this place, 50 years ago ; 
before the desert was changed to a beautiful garden,. 

♦ Battte-flat. 



PLUMPTON. S87 

•* Here," says Leland, "is a park, and a fair house of 
** stone, with two towers belonging to the same." One 
of these towers remained, till about the year 176O5 
when Daniel Lascelles, esq., having purchased the 
estate, took down the tower, and began to build a 
large hous^ here, which was carried several stories 
high ; when, happening to purchase the Goldesburgh 
estate, he took up his residence there 5 and, the unfi- 
nished building, atPlumpton, was taken down to the 
ground- The stables, with other offices, remain; and, 
an elegant little lodge has since been built, in the kit- 
chen-garden. 

This place is much resorted to, during the sum- 
mer months, on account of it*s beautiful pleasure- 
grounds; which, for singularity of situation, and 
diversity of pleasing objects, has not it's equal in 
Great-Britain. It consists of about 20 acres of irre- 
gular ground, interspersed with a great number of 
rocks, standing in detached pieces, of various forms 
and magnitude ; in the intervals are planted, a great 
variety of the most beautiful evergreens, and flowering 
shrubs ; through which, the walks are carried, in dif- 
ferent directions, all over the place. 

There is a fine lake, at the foot of the rocks, form- 
ing many curious inlets. Seat^ are placed, in different 
situations ; from whence, the spectator may, with the 
greatest advantage, mark all the beauties of this ro- 
mantic scencj which affords a solemn, but pleasing 



§88 PLUMPTON^ 

yariety, that never fails to call forth the admkg^tio^ of 
all who view it. 

" Here jes'mines spread the silver flowV, 
''And deck the rock, or weave the boVr; 
" Tiie wood-bines mix, in am'rous play, 
*' And breathe their fragrant sweets away: 
" There rising myrtles form a shade ; 
*' There roses blush, and scent the glade; 
** All, all their balmy sweets exhale, 
*' And triumph in the distant gale." 

The regularity of the perpendicular faces of many 
of these rocks, and the evident cuts which have been 
wrought, for the removal of considerable strata, leav- 
ing the lower stratum of equal breadth and length; 
are, with some, convincing proofs that this place^ 
inanyages ago, was a stone-quarry.* 

The faces of rocks, in their natural state, are rude, 
rounded, or broken into a variety of uncouth angles; 
instead of which, we meet with a smooth and perpen- 
dicular wall of stone; which gives reason to suppose, 
that the tool has been used here. 

Mr. Lascelles probably took the hint, of turning 
the stone-quarry into a pleasure-ground, from captain 



* This is very evident, and accounted for, by the following extract 
from the records, in the tower of London; "Licenc' Willo Plumpton, 
** quod ipse ad libitum suura muros et turres cum petris, calce, et za. 
" bulo, infra manerium suum de Plumpton, ©dificare, facere, &cr*^*^ 
P^t. 13, Edw. 4, p. 2, M. 11. . 



PLUMPTON. ^9 

Brydone's description of a beautiful garden, formed 
out of a quarry, at Syracuse. 

One huge mass of rock, insulated by water, which 
measures near 50 feet in length, without a joint, shows 
the possibility of finding obelisks here, even higher than 
those at Boroughbridge, which are believed to have 
been can ied from hence, ^ being of the same grit. 

In the time of Edward, the confessor, Gamelbar, a 
saxon or danish chieftain, had two carucates of land 
here; and arable land, sufficient for one plough. 

After the conquest, William de Percy claimed two 
<?arucates here, under whom, Eldred de Plumptoa 
held it; at which time, there were eight villeins, 
(slaves) and 10 borders, (husbandmen.) 

Gilbert Tyson, at the same time, claimed two 
carucates of taxable land here, and arable, for one 
plough 5 which was half a mile in length, and three 
furlongs in breadth. The rent, in the time of Edward, 
the confessor, was 20s.; but, at this time, was only 5s..* 

The manor of Rofarlington, near Plumpton, was 
also keld of William de Percy, by Eldred de Plumps 
ton; and then contained two carucates and two 
oxgangs, of taxable land; three villeins, and five 
borders ; and a wood, one mile in length, and nine fur- 
longs in breadth. 

The family of Plumpton, holding their lands of 
the Percys^ as mesne lords, bore the Percy's arms, oa 

•Domesday -book. 
3 B 



290 l»LUMPTON* 

their shield, ^vIth the difference only of an escallop- 
sheli, inserted in the centre of each fusil, in token of 
their subordination. 

Nigel de Plumpton had the v/hole lordship of 
Plumpton given him, by William Estotville, lord of 
Knaresbrough, for a gelding of £6, value. 

Peter de Plumpton engaged with the barons, 
in the war against king John. 

Sir Robert Plumpton married Lucy, daughter 
of William, lord Ross 5 and died, 18th of Edward !!.• 

Sir Robert Plumpton, knighted 4th of Edward 
III.; married Isabel, daughter of Henry, lord Scroop, 
and sister to Richard Scroop, archbishop of York. 

Sir William Plumpton, beheaded along with 
his uncle, archbishop Scroop, sir John Lamplugh, 
and several others, at York, for taking arms against 
Henry IV.; 1405. 

Sir Robert Plumpton, knt., served in the army 
of John, duke of Bedford, regent of France, 1424. 
Robert Plumpton, temp. Henry VL, married Eli- 
zabeth, eldest daughter of Thomas, lord Clifford, in 
the castle of Skipton ; she being then only seven years 
of age; but, he dying before she attained her 12th 
year; she was afterwards, by ^ dispensation from the 
pope, married to hi* secbnd brother. 

Sir Wliliam Plimpton, knightedisthof Ed- 
ward IV.; married Jane, daughter and co-heiress of 
Thomas Wintringham, of Whatringham-hall, inKnares- 



PLUMPTOK. fOl 

brough.* This gentleman was a steady adherent to 
Edward IV.j from whom, besides many other favors, 
he obtained a licence, to castelate his house, at Plump* 
ton; and, to have free warren, in all his lands there. 

The last heir of this family, was Robert Plump- 
ton, of Plumpton, esq., who was possessed of seve* 
ral considerable estates in Plumpton, Rofarlington, 
Knaresbrough, Ribstone, and Brame, in the county 
of York. He died at Paris, May 8, 1749, unmarried^ 
intestate, and without issue. 

William Knight, one of his sister's sons, being 
insane, and incapable of joining in any conveyance^ 
an act of parliament was obtained, for settling his wifes 
undivided moiety of the estate, in trustees in trust, to 
be sold, for the purposes therein mentioned 3 and sooa 
afterwards, they joined with mr. Palmes, the other 
sister's son, and mrs. Cicily, and Ann Plumpton, in 
selling the whole of the two manors of Plumpton and 
Rofarlington, to Daniel Lascelles, esq., /or the sum 
of <£28,000. 

Cicily, and Ann Plumpton, were both nuns j and, 
living in the english convent of benedictines, at Cam- 
bray, in Flanders, in the year 1783. 

Half a mile from Plumpton, is 

Brame-hall \1i 
Now a farm house ; but, formerly the residence of 

• Now the residence of mr* Thackwraj, 
t Brathami a dwelling, on the side of a liilL 

S B 2 



SOS 



PLUMPTO^. 



a branch of the very ancient family of the Cholm- 
leys 5 'whose arms, painted on glass, yet remain in one 
of the windows of this house. Richard Cholmley 
resided here, in 1658 5 Henry Cholmley, I686. 

One mile from Plumpton, on the right of the road 
leading from thence, to Spofford, at about 100 yards 
distant, stands a rock, of a singular shape; it's circum- 
ference, about 90 feet, and altitude, 24. There is a 
large perforation, quite through the roek, five feet 
wide, and near six feet high ; in the centre of this ca- 
vity, is a bason, two feet deep, and four feet in diame- 
ter. Such perforations are supposed to have been 
used, by the druids, to initiate and dedicate their chiK 
dren to the offices of rock-worship,* 




* Tkis rook sU»d5 in^ low mstfsby ^tnation ; called, at this daj, ScU^it^ 



sporFORD^ 293 

BoRLACE informs us, that, "in the parish of Ma- 
dem, in Cornwall, is a similar-holed rock ; through 
which, the country people, at this day, creep, in order 
to obtain a cure for pains in the limbs 5 and, where fan- 
ciful parents do, also, frequently draw their young 
children, to cure them of the rickets." Such places 
were used, by idolaters, for worse purposes, more than 
2,000 years ago. See Isaiah^ Lvii., 5. 

SPOFFORD: 

[Spa*to*-ford,'\ Before the conquest, Gamelbar was 
lord of this manor ; after which, William d^ Percy had 
here, four carucates of land, nine villeins, and 10 
borders. Here was then a mill, four acres of meadow^ 
and a wood one mile square. The whole manor, was 
said to be 16 furlongs in length, and 12 in breadth. 

Here was the seat of the illustrious family of the 
Percys, even before Alnwick or Warkworth came into 
their possession. 

William de Percy obtained a grant, for a mar- 
ket here, onFrida^'^s; in the year 1224. 

1309, Henry DE Percy procured licence to for- 
iify his castle here. Henry de Percy, the first earl of 
Northumberland, was slain at Hramham-moor, within 
a few miles from this house, in the year 1 407. After the 

« A spring, called The Spazo-well, may yet be seen, in the first field, 
on the right of the road, leading from Spofford, to thella^gs. Abridge 
batb been kuUt over the ford. 

2 B S 



294 fiPOFFORB. 

battle of Towton, 1462, so fatal to Henry VL, in 
irhicb, amongst a great many others, were slain the 
earl of Northumberland, and sir Richard Percy, his 
brother; their estates were laid waste, and every 
thing belonging to them entirely destroyed, by the 
enraged conquerors. 

Lel AND observes, that " the manor-house at Spof- 
ford, was sore defaced, in the time of the civile warrs, 
betwixt Henry the sixth, and Edward the fourth ; by 
the earl of Warwick, and marquis of Montacute." 

The heir of this great family, being in his mino- 
rity when his father was slain, was committed to the 
tower of London, till the 27th of October, 1469; 
when he was brought before the king, at Westminster, 
and took the oath of allegiance ; whereupon, he was 
soon after restored to the estates and dignities of liis 
ancestors : He was unfortunately murdered, by a 
mob, at his house, nearTopcliffe, in Yorkshire, 1489* 

After having lain in ruins some time, we find this 
house was again made tenable; for, in the year 1559, 
Henry, lord Percy, obtained a licence to fortify his 
houses, at SpofFord and Leckenfield. It is most pro- 
bable, this mansion w^s demolished in the civil wars of 
Charles I.; as Sampson Ingilby, esq., steward to the 
duke of Northumberland, resided here, about the 
year 1600. 

The present ruins extend 45 yards, from north 
to south ; and 16, from east to west. The situation is 



SPOFFORD* 295 

on a sloping bank, ending on a low wall of rock, with- 
in the castle, affording convenience for lower apart- 
ments. 

The hall, which has been a most magnificent room, 
is 75 feet in length, and 36 In breadth; the windows 
are arched, like those of cathedral churches. It seems 
to have been built about the time of Edward III., 
when the idea of the castle, began to give way to that 
of the palace. 

Here, no doubt, have often been repeated, those 
scenes of festivity so frequent in our ancient baronial 
castles, and described in the following lines : 

" Lord Percy made a solemn feast. 

In Spofford's princely hall ; 
And there came lords, and there came knights. 

His chiefs and barons, all. 

"With wassail, mirth, and revelry. 

The castle rung around r 
Lord Percy call'd for song, and harp. 

And pipes of martial sound. 

Tli£ minstrels of that noble hous«^ 

All clad in robes of blue. 
With silver crescents on their arms. 

Attend, in order due. 

The great acliie\'ements of tliat race. 

They sung their high command; 
How valiant Manfred ,* o'er the seas. 

First l^d his northern band. 

* Manfred de Percy, the first of tliis family, we hare an account of. 
He was a nobleman, of dauish extraction ; a great chieftain, who maiic 
ivuptiov^s Mito France, befor* KoUo, the dane, aoBO 88Q. 



Q96 SPOfFORD. 

Srare Galfrid uext, to Normandj^ 
^ With ventVous Rollo came; 

And, fropa his nonaaxx castles iiiroD» 
Assumed the Percy name. 

They sung how, in the conquVor's fleet. 
Lord William shipp'd his powers'. 
And, gained a fair young saxon bride,* 
Witli all her lands, and towers. 

Then journeying lo the holy-land. 
There bravely fought, and dy'd ; 

But, first the silver crescent wan- 
Some paynim soldan-s pride. 

With loud acclaims, the list'ning crowd 

Applaud the master's song; 
And, deeds of arms, and war, became 

The theme of ev'ry tongue.'* 

At the distance of 20 jards, from the west fronts 
is a remarkable fine echo. 

The church 

Is a rectory, dedicated to All-saints. The first 
rector that occult, is Henry de Evesham j December, 
1280: Thepresentrectoris John Tripp, p. D.. The 
earl of Egremont, is patron. 

In an aperture in the south wall, under an elegant 
piece of arched work, lies the mutilated eifigy of » 

# Emma de Port. She was daughter to Gerpakric, earl of }7orUilU)a* 
)b«rlandi wd lady of Seymtur^ near Scarborough, &c«» 



SPOFFORD. 



29T 



knight, his legs across, and hands elevated ; at his feet, 
lies a lion : On his shield, are five fusils, charged with 
five escallops ; the arms of Plumpton, of Plumpton. 

Against the wall, are three elegant marble monu. 
ments, with inscriptions, in memory of John Middle- 
ton, grand-son of sir Peter Middleton, knight j obit^, 
1770; Marmaduke Middleton, esq., 1757; dam^ 
Elizabeth Haggerston, sister of the above, and relici 
of sir Carnaby Haggerston, of Haggerston, in th« 
county of Northumberland *, obit, 1770. 

On the outside of the church, upon the north wall> 
are the ancient arms of the Percys -, and, on the souths 
are those of Percy and Brabant, 

Testamentary/ burials^ in this church : 

William Middleton, of Stockeld, 1474.— 
Nicholas Middleton, of N. Deighton, 1500. — ^\Villi- 
am Plumpton, 1547. — ^Thomas Middleton, of Spof- 
ford-park, 1548. — Richard Paver, of Brame. — ^^Vil- 
liam Middleton, of Stockeld, knt, 1549. — John 
Middleton, of Stockeld, 1564. — ^William Schiymsher, 
of N. Deighton, 1556 : He was interred in the south 
side of the choir, with some particular imagery on the 
stone; and, his arms on the four corners. — John Pa- 
ver, of Brame, 1578.— 'William Plumpton, of Plump- 
toDf 160 U 



^9 WETHERBY. 

One mile from Spofford, on the right, is 
STOCKELD; 

The seat of William Middleton, esq.. This 
ancient family is descended from Hipolitus de Brame, 
lord of Middleton; who was living in the reign of 
Henry IL. Robert de Brame, had issue sir Peter, 
who was the first of the family that took the name of 
Middleton; he had issue, sir Adam, who was living 
in the year 1324: — A statue of this knight, in armor, 
is in the church of Ilkley. Sir Peter Middleton, was 
high-sheriiF of the county of York, 1334.— Sir Wil- 
liam Middleton, of Stockeld, was high-sheriff, 1526. 

-4 r;w5— Argent j fretty, sable, a canton of the se- 
cond. Crest-^On a wreath, argent, and sable; a 
garb, or, between a pair of wings, argent. Motto*^ 
** Regardes mon droit," 

Not far from the house, and near the high-road, is 
a rock of a very singular shape, Qb feet in circumfer- 
ence, and SO feet high, standing on the margin of a 
lake. The dutch use the word StockbeldU for a mis* 
ghapen image or statue; from which circumstance, 
the present name of the place hath probably origijiated* 

WETHERBT; 

Situated on the river Wharfe, where the course 
of that river forms an angle, whose sides are, eacht 
about one mile in length. At the point of this angle^ 



WETHERBY. Si99 

stands the town; on that account, called, by our saxon 
ancestors, WederbL* There are several places, situate 
on different turnings of this river, with similar names 
in english, as Turn-head andTurnham-hall , oneabove, 
and the other, below Selby. Here is a market, oa 
Thursdays; and three fairs, viz., Holy-Thursday, 
August the 5th, and the first Thursday after Novem- 
ber 22. The chapel here, is in the patronage of the 
rector of Spofford. 

Here is a fine bridge ; above which, the river forms 
a beautiful cascade, by falling in a grand sheet of wa- 
ter, over an high dam, erected for the convenience of 
the mills. Over this cascade, the salmon, in their way 
up the river from the sea, are seen to leap, with admi- 
rable dexterity. 

In the 20th of William I., this manor was in the 
liands of two norman lords, viz., William de Percy, 
and Erneis de Burun ; the first, had three carucates, 
and the latter, two: William, a soldier, belonging to 
Percy, had two carucates of his chief; and, had then 
here three villeins, and one border. 

Erneis de Burun, had here, at that time, one 
gockman, and four villeins. Here was, also, a wood, 
half a mile square* It was afterwards given to the 
kflights templars; and forfeited, together with all iheir 
estates in England, on the abolition of the order, la 
-Che year 1312. 

• Wiider, (gtrman) tQ turn. 



SOO WETHERBY. 

In the civil wars of Charles L, this town was % gar-- 
rison, commanded by sir Thomas Fairfax; who repul- 
sed sir Thomas Glenham, in two attemps he made, io 
beat up his quarters here. The following account of 
which, is copied from the memoirs of that illustrious 
commander, wi'itten by himself: 

*' I was sent to Wetherby, with 300 foot, and 40 horse. 
** The enemy's next design, from York, was to fall upon 
** my quarters there, being a place very open, and 
** easy for them to assault, there being so many back- 
** ways, and friends enough to direct them, and give 
** them intelligence. About six o'clock, one morn- 
** ing, they fell upon us, with 800 horse and foot; the 
** woods thereabout favoring them so much, that our 
** scouts had no notice of them, and no alarm was 
" given, till they were ready to enter the town ; whith 
** they might easily do, the guards being all a-sleep iir 
** houses ; for, in the beginning of the war, men were 
*' as impatient of duty, as they were ignorant of it 
^ I, myself, was only on horse-back ; and, going out of 
** the other end of the town, to Tadcaster, where my 
** father lay, when one came running after me, and 
** told me the enemy was entering the town; I present- 
*^ ly galloped to the house of guard, where I found not 
•* above four men at their arms, as I remember, two 
** seijeants, and two pikemen, who stood with me> 
** when sir Thomas Glenham, with about six or seven 
** commanders more, charged us ; and, after a short, 
*• but sharp encounter, in which, one major Carr 



IfETHERBY. 30j 

** was slain, they retired 5 and, by this time, mare of 
** the guards were got to their arms, I must confess, 
«' I knew no strength, but the powerful hand of God, 
** that gave them this repulse."* 

*' After this, they made another attempt, in which 
*' captain Atkinson (on our part) was slain. And, here 
" again, there fell out another remarkable Providence • 
*' during this conflict, our magazine was blown up: 
« This struck such a terror into the enemy, believing 
** we had cannon, which they were before infonned 
** we bad not, that they instantly retreated 5 and, 
** though I had but a few horse, we pursued the enemy 
"some miles, and took many prisoners: We lost 
« about eightor ten men; whereof, seven were blown 
** up with powder. The enemy lost many more.*' 

A Itttle below this town, k a place, called " Saint 
Helen's ford^" where the romaa military way cross- 
ed the river. 

Half a mile beyond Wether1>y, on the le.t, is 
Wetherby^grange, 

The seat of Richard Thompsok, esq.. In the 
park, isa Heronry; athing, not very common in this 
part of the country : These birds build their nests on 

♦ Sir Henry SUugsby says, every one of the gentlemen had a shot at 
sir Thomas; who, in his turn, attacked them with his awoni, retreating 
occasionally under tlie cover of his pikes. 



30Q THORP-ARCH# 

the tops of the highest trees; they are made of sticks, 
aiidlined with wool; but, they will not give themselves 
that trouble, when they can get them ready made, by 
the rooks ; these they usually enlarge, and line within, 
driving away the original possessors, should they hap» 
pen to renew their fruitless claims. 

THORP- ARCH; 

Situated in a romantic and beautiful vale; through 
which, the river Wharfe runs, with a swift and rapid 
current. The houses, in the village, intermingled 
with trees ; the cascade, seen through the arches of 
the bridge; with the church, on the opposite shore, 
compose a very beautiful landscape. 

The mineral water, at this place, was accidentally 
discovered, on the fourth ji^f June, 1744, by Joha 
Shires, an inhabitant of the viHage; since which time, 
it hath been much frequented, by persons of all 
ranks. Dr. Monro, speaking of this spring, says, 
** It is a pure, brisk, salt chalybeate, which proves 
** purgative; having a strong sulphureous smell. An 
** ale gallon, yielded one ounce and six drachms of 
** sediment; 25 grains of which, were a white alka^ 
^* line earth; the rest, sea salt." 

This village derives it's name from the family of 
De Arcubus, or De Arches; who came in with the 
conqueror, and had several estates in these parts. It 



THORP-ARCH. SOS 

has sometimes been called Ivet-Thorpt from Tvetta, the 
wife of William De Arches ; who gave, to the nuns of 
Monkton, some lands in this place, and a wood, en- 
closed, that reached from hence to Wetherby. 

In the year 1791> a very large and elegant building 
was erected here, for the reception of company, and 
called *'The Hotel;" the proprietors of which, not 
meeting with suitable encouragement, it hath since 
been opened, by a society of gentlemen, as a com- 
mercial and literary seminary. 

Bramham-park, 

In this neighbourhood; formerly belonged to Ro- 
bert Benson, esq., afterwards lord Bingley ; who built 
a stately house here, and greatly increased the park, 
by purchasing some estates adjoining to it; and laid 
out the ground in a very elegant manner, according 
to the taste of that time. It belonged, aftersvards, to 
George Fox Lane, lord Bingley; who married the 
daughter of the preceding lord, and had the title re- 
vived in him, in 176^2. He died, 177U and his only 
son, in 1768 ; so that the title is extinct. It afterwards 
became the seat of sir John Goodricke, hart., who 
dying in the year 1789> and his lady in 1795, this es« 
tate devolved to James Fox, esq.. 

On Bramham-moor, are large remains of the roman 
wy, colled *^ Watling'Street ;"' from which consular 

2 C 2 



304 



HASLEWOOB* 



Tozd, came divers vi(e vici7ialis, byThorner, ShadweU, 
through Street-Lane, and Hawcaster-Rig, to Addle. 

Theearl OF Northumberland, in arms against 
Henry IV., arrived with his forces, in Febuary, 1408^ 
at Bramham-moor, being attended by the lord Bar- 
dolph, the bishop of Bangor, and the abbot of Hales, 
together with a great number of other gentlemea. 
Sir Thomas Rokeby, then high-sheriff of Yorkshh-e, 
having raised an army, met the rebels near Haslewood ; 
a battle ensued, and the sheriff gained a complete vie* 
tory. The earl was slain in the field, and lord Bar- 
dolph was made prisoner 5 who died, a few days after, of 
his wounds. The abbot of Hales being taken in arms, 
was executed at York, with many others of his party. 
The bishop of Bangor* experienced a milder fate ; for, 
not being in arms, his life was spared. For this service, 
the king granted sir Thomas Rokeby, the manor of 
Spofford, with all it's appurtenances, during his life, 

HASLEWOOD: 

Tins manor was held of William de Percy, by the 
Vavasours, in the time of William, the conqueror; 
and has, to this day, continued regularly in the male 
line of that ancient house; except for a short time, in 
Ae reign of Henry III., when it was in pawn to Aaron, 
a jew, at York, for the sum of 3501.; who made a con* 

♦ About two years ago, a ring was found, not far from hence, sup- 
posed to have belonged to one of these ecclmastical wariiort* Vid«j 
Otnt. MagazinCf for March, 180^. 



TADCASTER. 305 

veyance of his security, to queen Eleanor, in discharge 
ot a debt, due to her, (or assigned by the crown)^ from 
whom, John de Vavasour received it again, on pay- 
ment of the money, by a very curious deed of con- 
veyance, remarkable for it's brevity.* 

In the chapel, here are many monuments, inscrip* 
tions, and coats armorial, chiefly consisting of the 
Vavasours' arms, with their quarterings. Against the 
south wall, is a raised monument, on which, are the 
figures of nine different persons of the Vavasour family. 

On a raised tomb, within the altar-rails, lye the 
figures of two knights, cut in stone; the first, cross- 
legged; each in a coat of mail, with a sword girt by 
his side, and a large shield with the Vavasour's arms. 

Fuller, inhis Account of British Worthies, when 
speaking of the Vavasours, observes, that, within 10 
miles of Haslewood, there were 165 manor-houses ^ 
Q72 woods ; 32 parks ; two chaces of deer; 120 rivers 
and brooks, well stored with fish ; 76 water-mills, for 
grinding corn ; 25 coal-mines; and, three iron- forges : 
He also adds, that both the cathedrals of Lincoln 
and York, may be seen from thence. 

TADCASTER; 

Three miles from Thorp-Arch, and nine from York ; 
tath a market on Wednesdays, This town is sup- 

* Vid« Archaeologia, vol. §, p, 339. 
2 C 3 



S06 TABCASTEIt. 

posed to have been the Cdcaria of the romans ; as the 
distance from York exactly corresponds with that gi* 
ven by Antoninus, in his Itinerary. Many coins^ of 
Ihe roman emperors, have been found here ; and the 
place is still famous for it's lime-stone. Here was a 
castle, in former ages ; from the ruins of which, we 
are told, the present noble bridge was erected, near 
100 3Tars ago:— The middle of this bridge, is the out- 
bounds of the Ainsty ; and may be said to be the very 
Qut-port, or gate of the city of York, on that side. 

A grant, from Edward II., of certain lands, to the 
priory of Knaresbrough, in the year 1318, concludes 
** Teste rege, apud Tadcastre.** 

The trench, which surrounded this town, and of 
which there are yet some remains, was probably 
thrown up, during the civil wars of Charles I., by the 
troops, under the command of the earl of Newcastle. 

Sir Thomas Fairfax relates, that, on his hear- 
ing the earl, with 4,000 men, was advancing to attack 
him, in Tadcaster, where he lay with only 90O men, 
the town being quite untenable, he marched out ; andf 
a sharp conflict took place, which lasted from 1 iVclock 
in the forenoon, till it ^vas quite dark, when both par* 
ties drew off. Sir Thomas retreated to Selty, during 
the night 5 and, the earl of Newcastle took possession 
of Tadcaster, where the royalists remained, till near 
the commencement of the siege of York. There were 
slain, on both sides, about SCO, but none of note, ex* 
cept one captain Lister, who was shot in the hea^ 



TABCASTER# 30? 

by a musket-ball : In Thoresby's Ducatus Leod,, there 
is a remarkable instance of filial affection, relating to 
that gentleman — His son, passing through Tadcaster, 
many years after, had the curiosity to inquire where 
his father was buried ; and, finding the sexton digging 
in the choir, he shewed him a skull, just dug up, 
•which he averred to be his father's : The skull, upon 
handling, was found to have a bullet in it ; which tes- 
timony of the truth of the sexton's words, so struck 
the son, that he sickened at the sight, and died soon 
after. 

The church 

• Is a vicarage, dedicated to saint Mary 5 and, for- 
merly belonged to the abbey of Salley, in Craven* 
The earl of Egremont, is now patron. 

Hekry Obryen, the last earl of Thomond, in 
Ireland, was, in the year 1714, created baron and 
viscount Tadcaster. He married Elizabeth^ eldest 
daughter of Charles Seymour, duke of Somerset; 
but, dying without issue, in the year 1742, the title 
became extinct. 




308 ROAD TO EOROUGHBRIDGE. 



STAGE VIIL 

Harrogate^ to Boroughbridge. — "Newby.*- 
Thornton-bridge. — Topcliffe. 



ROM Harrogate to Boroughbridge, 10 miles j the 
road, in general, very good j the fine enclosures of 
rich land, on each side, with the lofty trees, and well- 
grown hedge-rows, render this ride exceedingly plea- 
sing. 

Near two miles from Knaresb rough, is Hazel- 
BANK 5 on the top of which, was formerly the gibbet, 
for the execution of malefactors, within the honor of 
Knaresbrough. 

About a quarter of a mile farther, on the right of 
the road, in a low situation, is the place where it is 
supposed stood, in former times, butts, for the pur- 
pose of exercising the youth of Knaresbrough, and 
ifs villages, in the practice of archery. The land 
adjoining, is, at this day, called ** Butter-hills*^ 

Fassikg thevillageof Ferren&byj on the left, k 



ALDBURGH. 309 

LopTHOUSE-HiLLf the pleasant seat of Charles 
Slingsby, esq.. Three miles from which, is 

MINSKIR 

Mine-skepf a hamper, or basket, anciently used as 
a measure for corn; in making of which, the people 
of this village, may, at some former period, have ex- 
celled. 

The baskets of Britain, it seems, were admired in 
Rome, more than 1700 years ago, as they are particu- 
larly noticed by Martial, lib. xiv., c. 49. 

'* Barbara depictis vcni bascanda Britannis, 
** Sed me jam masult dicere Koma suam." 

" A basket I, by painted britons wrought; 

" And now, to Rome*s imperial city brought.'* 

In the 20th of William I., here were two carucates 
of arable land, three villeins, and two ploughs. 

One mile from Minskip, is 
ALDBURGH, 

Now a small village, where once stood Iseur, the 
capital of the brigantes, in british times ; whose origin 
might probably have been from the banks of the river 
Isere, which rises in the Alps, on the confines of Sa- 
voy and Piedmont, passes through part of Dauphiny» 
and empties itself into the Rhine, near Valence. 

The brigantes were, for a long time, limited within 



310 ALDBURGH. 

the counties of what are now called York, and 
Durham; but overcharged, in all probability, with 
their own numbers, about the commencement of 
Christianity, they detatched a strong party across the 
hills, which extend from Derbyshire to Scotland, 
and, into the countries of Sistuntii and Volantii, be- 
yond them. These, apprehensive of the invasion, 
and providing against the danger, seem to have wise- 
ly entered into a strict and intimate alliance,*— They 
entered, however, in vain ; unable, with their united 
forces, to resist the vigour of the invaders, they were 
obliged to submit ; when all that extensive region that 
is now divided into the five counties of Durham^ 
York,* Westmorland, Cumberland, and Lancashire, 
owned their subjection to the brigantian capital, Iseur, 

Here reigned, before the year 50, Venutius, and 
his queen, Cartismandua j* who, in concert with her 
paramour, Volocatus,t contrived to depose that brave 
but unfortunate prince. The brothers and relations 
of Venutius, called in allies ; and, by their assistance, 
reduced Cartismandua to extremities. On her appli- 
cation to the romans, their light troops, and cohorts, 
were sent to her assistance. 

In the mean time, Caractacus, king of the silures, 
famous for his military exploits, having defended his 
country ag"ainst the romans, for nine successive years, 
was, at length, entirely defeated, and sought for pro- 

* Tacitus Ann., lib. xvi.. 
t Who had been annor-bearer to Veoutitts. 



ALDBITRGH. 311 

tection amongst the brigantea; where he fell into the 
power of Cartismandua; and was, by her order, deli- 
vered into the hands of his enemies, 

Venutius being still at the head of the greater part 
of the brigantian forces; and, in alliance with the si- 
lures, and other states, on the defeat of Caractacus, 
took the chief command of the confederates ; and, for 
a while, made a noble stand against the common ene- 
my, but, was at length defeated, by Petilius Cerealis; 
who also laid waste a great part of the country. 

The victorious Agricola, completed the conquest 
of the brigantes^ about the year 79; after which, that 
consummate general remained some time amongst 
thewi, erecting fortresses, to secure his. conquests; 
while, at the same time, he endeavoured to conciliate 
the affections of the britons, by every possible display 
of politeness and humanity; ri vetting their chains by 
incitements to luxur\% and the charms of dissipation, 
encouraging and assisting them in building spacious 
temples, magnificent galleries, sumptuous bagnios, 
and places for public assemblies.* 

About this time, it is probable that Agricola, pre- 
ferring the situation to that of Iseur, laid the foun- 
dation of Eboracum ;t which, soon after, became the 
head quarters of the roman army. 

Dion Ca^sius, the roman historian, who was liv- 

« Tacitus Vit. Agric. 
t Drake's Aatiqalties of York, p. &» 



319 ALDBUROH. 

ing about the time when the emperor Severus kept 
his court in that city, says, *' Eboracum was raised to 
** the same dignity, under the roman government, 
*• which Iseur had previously enjoyed under the bri* 
•* tish."* To this city came vessels, laden with corn, 
for the maintenance of the prtBtenturas^ by water, as 
far as from Cambridge, about 250 miles 5 for which 
purpose, the Carsdike, of Lincolnshire, was made, 
which being repaired and lengthened by Carausius, 
his name was affixed to it. The Wharfe, or landing* 
place, seems to have been near a turn in the river, 
called Hall-armf where the boats do now frequently 
land their cargoes of coals, bricks, &c.; which would 
be about 600 yards distant from the porta horealis, or 
northern gate. Here were large granaries, to lay up 
the corn, out of the boats ; from whence it was carried, 
in waggons, along the great roman road, called Lee- 
ining-lane, to the northern garrisons. 

Iseur continued in splendor for 300 years after 
this period, namely, till the year 766; when the 
danes sacked, and burnt it to ashes, t This manor ap- 
pears to have been again depopulated, with many- 
others, by the vindictive conqueror, after the siege of 
York. 

The british name of this city, having been altered 
by a roman termination, to Isurium 5 afterwards, un- 

* Ptolomy, and IRichard of Cirencester, p. S7* 
t Higden*s Polychron.. 



ALDBURGH. 313 

4envent a total change, by the saxons , who named it 
Burc*y (perhaps from some town of the same name, 
in their own country) j and lastly, io A Idburgh, q. d., 
Oid-Burc, 

On opening the ground, in many places, the marks 
of fire are very evident 5 and, the great number of 
antiquities that have been, through every succeeding 
age, and are still frequently found here, confirm the 
tradition, that this city was finally destroyed by some 
very sudden and unexpected calamity. 

The ground, where the city stood, is a great part of 
it converted into corn-fields; in which, frequently 
after ploughing, coins of various sorts are found, and 
particularly after showers of rain, which, washing the 
earth and sand from the metal, make them more 
easily discovered. Of the coins found here, some few 
are of gold or silver, but the greatest part brass ; and 
generally of the following emperoi-s : Augustus Cas- 
sar, Claudius, Vespasian, Domkian, Nerva, Trajan, 
Pertinax, Severus, Maximinus, Valerian, Aurelian. 
Dioclesian, Constantine, Carausius, and Julian. 

There have also been found, small heads of bras«^ 
chaiiifi of gold, and many little polished signet stones, 
of divers kinds and figures ; several urns, hypocau- 

• BurcA, a town of Zutphen. Buixh^ the chief town on the i^e 
of Tcxe!. 

« D 



314 ALDBURGH. 

stums, lamps, of various forms j fragments of aque- 
ducts, covered with roman tiles, l6 inches long, 12 
broad, and two thick 5 tessalated pavements, 
of diiferent forms and beauty, the largest and 
most entire piece of which, was found, some years 
ago, in digging the ground- work of a cottage: It 
is carefully preserved ; and, with several other curio- 
sities, remains for public inspection. The learned 
Roger Gale was of opinion, that these pavements were 
the floors of the banqueting-houses, or of the grand 
apartments, chief rooms, or baths, in the private hou- 
ses of the better sort of people, even down to the 
lowest times. That the ruins of this ancient city 
have raised the ground, considerably above ifs former 
surface, is very evident, from the situation of these 
pavements, which are near two feet below the present 
level. 

In the year 1770, as some men were employed in 
throwing up a turnpike way, within this town, they 
discovered the foundations of a range of buildings, 
,216 feet in length, and 24 in breadth; the two out, 
sides, were exactly parallel to each other, running from 
east to west , and, between them were several partitions. 
These foundation-walls, were of stone, strongly cemen- 
ted, three feet thick 5 and five feet below the present 
surface. 



ALDBURGH. 



315 




6 iob aco aoo ^yo^ 



The form of this city,* was nearly a square : It's walls, 
which may yet be traced, measured, in circumference, 
2,500 yards. 

• See tbeabove plan, copied from Drake:-a,Tliechurch.--b, Borough- 
hill.— c Studforth-hill.-e, Ennme.street.-y, Old road, from York— 
r, Koad to Boroughbridge.-k, Road to Knaresbrough.-p, Tessalated 
pavements— u, Tbe river Ure. 

« D ^ 



316 



ALDBURGfK. 



In the month of March, 1794, the foundation of 
the city wall was opened, for the purpose of procu- 
ring stone, on the west side, leading from thence to 
Boroughbridge ; The breadth, was 15 feet ; and depth, 
about the same number of feet below the surface. At 
first, there appeared layers of red grit stone, in irregu- 
lar pieces, mixed with lime and coarse sand, which 
continued about seven feet deep; then, eight feet 
of layers of pebbles, bedded in blue clay, resting on 
a bed of sand. Within, or near the foundation, were 
found, at the same time, pieces of urns, several querns, 
or mill-stones, horns of deer,* sawn off apparently with 
a very fine saw ; also, a small head of a cow, in brass, 
supposed to represent lo or Isis. That the old britons 
had knowledge of Isis, is the opinion of Burton, in 
his Commentary on Antoninus ; And Sammes, in his 
British Antiquities^ mentions two roman inscriptions, 
in honor of Isis -, one, in Germany, and the other, 
in Bavaria ; and proves, from the authority of Boc- 
chart, that the worship of that idol, was introduced 
into Belgium, by the Phoenicians ; and from thence, 
might be brought into Britain, by some of the early 
migrators. The Thames and the Ure, appear both to 
have been held sacred to Isis, as the Wharfe was to 
Verbeia. A contraction of the words Isis and Ure, 
with a roman termination, are evident, in the name 

* In digging the foundation for rebuilding saint Paul's cathedral, ia 
London, wliere it is supposed a heathen temple formerlj stood j seversd 
h»xas of de«r were found, sawn in a simUar ooaauer* 



ALDBURGHi. SFJ 

given, by that people, to the capital of the brigantes, 
Isurium. Let it also be observed, that this river, 
after it's junction with the Swale, (like the Nile, in 
Egypt) fertilizes the land, by overflowing it's banks. 

Several large stones, supposed to have been part 
of a gate-way, were dug up, in 1772, near the place 
where it is probable the eastern gate stood. And, in the 
month of October, 1 808, as some workmen were digg- 
ing, on the south side of this village, in order to widen 
the road, leading from thence to York, they discovered 
a number of urns, containing ashes, and burnt bones ; 
together, with a lachrymatory, or tear-bottle, a fibula 
t'esfariayZnd 18 human skeletons; one of which, had a 
piece of money in it's teeth -,* and another, a ring on a 
finger-bone ; all in wonderful preservation, considering 
they must have lain there more than 1400 years : It was 
evident, that the bodies of those, whose ashes were con- 
tained in the urns, had been burnt on the place 3 as there 
was a thin strata of black earth, and ashes, that covered 
the whole surface of the ground, where they were de- 
posited. The romans early adopted the custom of 
burning, from the greeks; under the emperors, it 
became almost universal; but, was afterwards, gradual- 
ly discontinued, upon the introduction of Christianity; 
and, fell into disuse, about the end of the fourth cen- 
tury. The place of burning, or burial, was ordered, 
by the law of the 1 2 tables, to be ( as in this instance ) 

♦ See Juvenal, sat. III., 267. 
2 D 3 



318 ALDBURGH. 

without the city. Several coins were also fotind, at 
the same time; amongst which, was a silver one, of 
Titus, in fine preservation ; one of the emperor Domi- 
tian; oneof Allectus, who slew his friend Carusius, at 
York, and assumed the government of Britain, in his 
stead, ahout the year SOOj oneof Constantius, thefa- 
ther of Constantine, the great, who died at York, about 
the year 306. Some of the u rns were broke, by the care- 
lessness of the workmen; the rest, together with the 
coins, are preserved by mr. Flintoff, in his valuable 
museum, at Boroughbridge. 

BoroughJiilly 

Formerly near the centre of the town, but re- 
moved in the year 1783, was about four yards high, 
and lOOin circumference. Several curious specimens 
of tessalated pavement were preserved, for public in- 
spection, on the top ef this hill, till about the year 
175a Here, also, have been found bases of pillars, 
roman coins, sacrificing vessels, bones, and horns ©f 
beasts, mostly stags'; from which, it is very probable^ 
that a temple stood here, in roman times. On this 
hill, in latter days, the inhabitants of this borough 
used to assemble, on public business ; and, particularly 
for the purpose of electing members, to represent 
them in parliament.. 

Edward IL granted, to the inhabitants of this ma- 
nor, the power of judging malefactors, taken either 



ALUFURGIR 319 

vrithia or without the liberties ; and, that they should 
have a ^bbet, for the execution of such as should be 
found guilty. The gibbet stood on an eminence^ 
about half a mile from Aldburglw 

.About 70 paces distant, from the south side of the 
old rampart, is an eminence, called 

StudfortTr, 

Which some suppose to have been an out- work, 
for the defence of the place : It^s shape is nearly a se- 
mi-circle, and forms a lofty terrace, 200 feet long, and 
10 or 12 feet broad; It is not improbable, but the- 
preseat name of this hilt may be ckrived from the 
latin stadiu7n ; a place, appointed for races and other 
exercises, performed by men,, on foot A noble work 
of tliis kind was built, by Domitian, at Romej of 
which, this might bean humble imitation j erected 
by Agricolaj his general,, in Britain, about the same 
time. 

The space from this terrace-, to the wall of the city^ 
would afford ample room for those recreations ; and^ 
the spectators would, from hencej have a full view or 
the youthful competitors, on the plain below, \vhen> 
engaged in their favorite exercises j the principal of 
which, was the Lud us Trajan, said to have been in- 
vented by Ascanius, the son of ^Eneas, for thfi 
youth of Troy j and described by Virgil i 



320 ALDBURGH. 



** Again they close , and o^ice again disjoin, 

** In troop to troop oppos'd, and line to line; 

** They meet, they wheel, they throw their darts afar, 

" With harmless rage, and well-dissembled war." Dryden^ 

The churches of Aldburgh, Boroughbridge, My- 
ton, and Ouseburn, are supposed, by mr. Drake, to 
have been built out of the ruins of Isurium. Great 
quantities might also have been sent, by water, to York. 
Clifford's tower, and the walls of the castle, appear 
to be the very same sort of stone. 

The church 

Is a vicarage, dedicated to saint Andrew : The dean 
and chapter of York, are patrons. 

" This vicarage of Burgh, is endowed with all the 
oblations of the parishioners, and with mortuaries, 
excepting of 'live cattle; it also hath the tithe of 
orchards and virgults, and increase of cattle, except- 
i'ixg the tithe of wool and lamb. In which respect, the 
vicar shall cause the mother-church, with it*s chapels 
of Dunsford and Boroughbridge, to be honestly serv- 
ed." Vide Torrs MSS.. 

On the outside of the vestry- wall, is a figure; by 
some, supposed to represent Pan, orSilvanus; but is, 
beyond all doubt, that of Mercury ; as part of the 
caduceus and the aloe, on the cap, are yet perceptible : 
The height of the figure, is two feet five inches. 

In the church-yard, is a grave-stone, placed on low 



ALDBURGH. 3Sl 

stone balusters, whereon is cut, in relievo, the half- 
length figure of a woman, in the attitude of praying; 
the habit appears saxon, if not more ancient. Chan- 
nels are cut, on each side of the figure, to let out the 
rain-water : To this precaution, it is perhaps owing» 
that so much of the original figure is still preserved. 
The stone, which is eight inches thick, near seven feci 
long, and two feet eight inches broad, is a sort of 
marble, (found in several quarries, in the north of 
England,) that abounds with fossil shells. 

Within the church, is a flat stone, inlaid with 
brass ; on which, is the figure of a young knight, in 
armor, bearing on his shield, the arms of Aldburgh: 
—argent, a fess dancett, between three crosslets, bo- 
tone azure. Under his feet, is written, on an escrolci 
Will* de Aldburgh, This brazen relic, being in- 
closed in one of the pews, is the only one, in the 
church, that has escaped the wild fanaticism of that 
period, so fatal to the venerable monuments of anti- 
quity, in this kingdom. 

Against the north wall, is an ancient monument; 
and over it, the arms of Mauleverer, and Aldburgh ; 
with several other quarterings. The family of Ald- 
burgh resided in that spacious mansion, still called 
Aldburgh'hall — Some of them were knights : Leland 
mentions sir William, and sir Richard. Richard Ald- 
burgh, esq., represented this borough in parliament^ 
in the yearl645. The name continued here, till about 



322 ALDBURGH. 

the year ]727j when the three daughters of the last 
male heir, married as follows : 

Esther Aldburgh, to William Scruton . • 1698. 

Elizabeth Aldburgh, to Peter Burnand . . 1705. 

Mary Aldburgh, to William Ware .... 1717. 

Some of whose descendants, are now living in the 
neighbourhood. 

In this church were garlands, hung up, in memory 
of young maidens and batchelors j a practice of very 
old date, and derived from pagan antiquity, with 
some variations. The heathens crowned their sepul- 
chres with garlands of flowers j and," the christians, in 
the earliest ages, placed the garlands at the heads of 
deceased virgins. In latter times, they were hung 
over the entrance into the choir; and the name^of 
the deceased, inscribed upon each of th^m.-— -These 
garlands were meant, as a token of esteem and love, 
and an emblem of their reward in the heavenly church* 

On the communion-table, stands a brass dish, on 
which are embossed, the figures of Adam and Eve, the 
tree and the serpent; with the following inscription, 
round the border : 

NIC MBARIAIZE HOSLVCKIZB 
LVCNICHBAR. 

Vicars of Aldburgh: 

1316 — William de Carleton. 1362 — John de Fulford. 
1340— Roger de Giblington, — Thomas de Escriks, 

1349 — William Anby. 1372 — John de Wintworth. 

136a— Robert Bonde. 1373 — John de Kilbume. 



ALDBURGH. 



323 



—William de Thorby. 
1380— Thomas My ion. 

— Henry Arke. 
1390 — Alan Cochon. 
1420 — Robert Laughley, 
1428 — John Pape. 
1430— Robert Bardsey. 
1478 — William Norraanby. 
1478 — John Preston. 
1487 — William Shake. 
1488 — John Jackson 
1524 — William Garthing 
1537 — Nic. Holme 
1541 — Robert Marshall 



1560 — James Plummer 
J 569— Thomas Sowrbie 
1585 — Thomas Hundersley 
1611 — John Tapsell 
1612— Richard Nightingale 
1616 — William Warde 
1622 — John Waddington 
1629 — Michael Gilbert 
1677 — Edward Morris 
1720 — Thomas Elcock 
1730 — William Bowman 
1744 — Francis Wanley 
17 50 — Henry Goodricke 
1801— Robert Wirell 



The register for this parish, begins with the year 
1538. 

The late Mark Smithson, esq., of Aldburgh, who 
died November 21, 1789> left «£lOO. per annum, to 
the poor of this place, for ever ; This money is in 
the funds ; and, the manner of applying the charity, is 
described on a large board, elegantly painted, and 
affixed to a pillar, at the north end of the church. 



This borough, sends two members to parliament; 
the first return of which, was in the year 1542; when 
John Gascoigne and John Brown were returned. In 
the Parliament ar]/ Journals^ vol. x., anno 1690, is 
the following passage : 

** Resolved, That the right of election, in the 
** borough of Aldburgh, in Yorkshire, is not in the 



324 ELLINTHORP, 

** select number of burgesses, holding by burgage- 
" tenure; but, the inhabitants paying scot and lot, 
** have a right to vote.'* 

The manor of Burc, one mile long, and one broad, 
%vas in the hands of Edward, the confessor ; and, af- 
terwards, in those of the conquerors : It contained, 
Avith it's three villages, Clareton, Hilton, and Burton, 
34 carucates of taxable land. In the year 1085, it was 
waste, in the hands of the king, "who had here six vil- 
leins, with five ploughs^ To this manor, also, per- 
tained the soccage of Ellinthorp, Milby, FellesclifFe^ 
Killinghail, Clifton, Timble, Wipeley, andStainley. 

On the opposite bank of the river, is a small vil- 
lage, called 

ELLINTHORP; 

Anciently Adelingstorp ; whose very name inti- 
mates nobility j adeh (saxon) noble ; iingy at the end 
of a word, denotes youths as stripling, &c.; a title of 
honor amongst the english saxons, properly belonging 
to the heir-apparent to the ciown ; which seems to 
point out this place, as having once been the resi- 
dence of a saxon prince. 

Three miles north-east of Aldburgh, was a tumu- 
lus, called 

Deuil'Cross ; 

Whose elevation was about 18 feet, mi circum- 



ELLINTHORP. 3S5, 

ference, at the base, 370 feet. It was broken into, 
some time since, to supply materials for the repair of 
the turnpike-road,* leading from x\ldburgh to York. 
The soil consisted, first, of a black earth, and under 
that, a red sandy gravel j human bones, entire, and 
urns, of various sizes, containing burnt -bones and 
ashes. The urns are composed of blue clay and sand, 
generally very coarse 3 some ornamented, and others 
quite plain. The annexed print, is a representation 
of one of them, dug up here, in the year 1756^ now 




* The tumulus, by this means, hatii quite disappeared i and, tJiep!aco 
i? B9W « saad-pit. 

d £ 



3S6 



lELLiNTHORP. 



in the possession of Humphrey Senhouse, esq., of 
Nether-hall, near Cockermouth. It was nine inches in 
height, and 32 in circumference. 

In the 3^ear 1776, was found, at about 200 yards 
distance from this tumulus, a votive stone, of a ^^ry 
coarse grit, seven feet long, and 18 inches diameter j 
inscribed: 




ELLINTHORP. 32T 

Various have been the conjectures, concerning this 
inscription ; which has proved, hitherto, a cruv critic 
cormn. A learned antiquary, in a late periodical pub- 
lication,* has given it to Decius, the successor of Phi- 
lip, in the empire: says, it is evidently a military 
stone ^ and fills up the void in the JRo?nan History of 
Britain^ in those disordered times of the roman em- 
pire, where history itself is: almost silent. 

Many coins were found in this tumulus, of vari- 
ous emperors.^ particularly of Vespasian, Domitian^ 
and Trajan. The legend and figures, on two of them, 
were as follows : 

IMP. CJES. VESPASIAN AUG. COS. HI.. 

Reverse, 

F^^.— 'An eagle, with it's wings expanded, standing 
on a globe. 



CaSAR AUG. F. DOMITIANUS COS. VI.. 

Reverse, 

PRINCEPS INVENTUTIS. 

Pilg',— Health, supported by a column ; with a ser- 
pent, in her right hand 5 and a goblet, in her left 

* Vide Gent. Magaainc, August, 1787. 
^ E 2 



358 



MARTON. 



It is very probable, that this was a pubh'c cemetery ^ 
and, when the custom of burning the bodies of the 
dead ceased, might still be used for the purpose of in- 
terment : Hence we ma}^ account for the great number 
of bones, on one side cf the tumulus, separate from 
the urns ; the great difference in the sizes of the urns, 
also seems to favor this conjecture. It's present name, 
Deuil, djerived from the french, implies the place of 
mourning : Especially, as it was usual, in the early 
ages of Christianity, to place across on almost every 
eminence ; at which places, funeral processions used 
to stop, set down the bier, and use certain ceremonies, 
expressive of mourning and woe. 

At a small distance from Deuil-Cross, is a village^ 
called 

MARTON; 

(q. d., Mere-ton.) The mere or pool, which 
probably gave name to this place, is not now to be seen ; 
but, is supposed to have once covered about 14 acres of 
marshy ground, now called " The Carrs j" where, in 
making drains, pieces of boats and oars have been 
frequently found. In 1797, one whole boat was dis- 
covered, which was broken to pieces, in digging up^ 
by the carelesness of the laborers : It appeared to have 
been one of those small boats, which fishermen usually 
fasten to the sterns of the larger vessels 5 and, in which, 
they preserve their fifsh a-livt j as the bottom plauk 



BOROUGHBRIDGE. 329 

bad, similar to those, a number of round holes in it^ 
for admitting the water. The romans set a high value 
on their vivaria, Pliny informs us, that a small villa^ 
belonging to C. Hirrius, was, on account of the fish* 
ponds, sold for £ 32,291. ISs. 4d.. Juvefialy sat 4th, 
blames Crispinus, for his having paid an enormous 
price for a single fish. 

..." The lavish slave> 

Six thousand pieces, for one larhel, gave: 
Do scales and Jins bear price to this excess ? 
He might have bought the fisherman, for less !" 

The distance from Isurium, makes it not improba* 
ble, that this may have once been a roman villa: The 
vicinity of the tumulus, at Deuil-Cross, which cer- 
tainly contained the remains of persons of distinction, 
favors the conjecture. Some traces of the foundations 
of a large pile of buildings, may yet be seen, in a place, 
called ** Hall-garth," near the church. 

BOROUGHBRIDGE: 

A market town, situate on the great north road, 
about mid-way betwixt London and Edinburgh; sends 
two members to parliament ; hath a market, on Satur- 
days; and several fairs, annually; the principal of 
which, begins the 18th of June, and continues a week: 
Great quantities of goods are brought to tjiis fair, 
particularly hardware and to)'s, by the manufacturers, 
from Sheffield, Birmingham, Wolverhampton, and 
2 E 3 



330 BOROUGHBRIDGE. 

many other parts of the kingdom. Here are^ also, 
horse-races, annually. The chapel is an ancient 
building, dedicated to saint James. In the market- 
place, stands a very neat fluted column, of the doric 
order. The little rivulet which runs into the Ure, at 
this place, is named Tut, perhaps a contraction of 
Tutelina* one of the inferior rural deities of the hea- 
thens, who had the tutelage of corn. 

Before the conquest, the gieat north road lay 
through the city of Burgh \ and crossed the Ure, by 
a wooden bridge, opposite Milby. After the norman 
conquest, the road was turned, and a bridge of wood 
also erected, about half a mile above, and called 
BuRGH-BUiDGE. In process of time, houses were 
(erected, for the entertainment of travellers ^ these in- 
creasing, formed a considerable village; which, at 
length, became a market town 5 and, began to return 
members to parliament, in the year 1557 ; Ranulph 
Cholmondley and Christopher \Vra.y, esqrs., 
being it's first representatives. 

The family of Tancred possessed lands here, be- 
fore the year 1200; their ancient mansion is now con- 
certed into the C^^owrl Inn. 

The following account of the battle fought here,, 
betwi^tt the forces of Edward II., and those of the di^- 

* She had a temple at Eom^, on Mount AvQnti»&. 



BOROrGHBRIDGE. 331 

contented barons, in the year 1321, is copied from 
Leland's Collectanea: 

** After this, Thomas Lancastre, and'thc barons, 
** counselid together, in blake-freres, in Pontefracte ; 
•* and the barons concludid to go to Dunstanburgh, a 
" caste! of Thomas of Lancastres, in North umbre- 
** land 3 but he utterly refused that counsel, lest it 
** might be thought that he had, or wolde have intel- 
*' ligence with the scottes ; wherefore, he entendcd to 
** remayne at his castel, at Pontfiacte. Syr Roger 
** Clyfford hearing this, toke out his dagger, and sayde, 
** that, he wolde kille hym with his owne handes, in 
** that place, except he wolde go with them. 

** Then Thomas Lancastre, a force grauntid, and 
** went with them, having yn company vii. c. menne, 
** to Burghbridge. To Burghbridge came syr Andrew 
** de Harkeley, wairden of Cairluel, and that march- 
** es, and syr Simon Warde, to encountre with the 
•* barons, where Thomas Lancastre told Harkeley his 
** just quarel agayne the Dispensars; promising him, 
** if he wolde favor his cause, one of the v. countes, 
** that then he had in his possession; but, Harkeley re- 
** fusid his offer. Then Thomas prophecied, that he 
** wolde sore repent, and that shortly. Then Harke- 
*^ ley, whom Thomas of Lancastre had afore- ty me 
** made knight, made his archiers to shote ; and, so 
** did the barons, upon the bridge. And, emong al 
** other, one gotte under the bridge; and, at a hole, 
** killed, with a launce, the renownid knight, Hum- 



339 BOHOUGHBRIDG^. 

^* frede de Bohuu ; syr Roger Clyfford was^sore tvonded 
•* onthehedde; syi' William SuUey, and syr Roger 
" Bernefeld, were slayne. Then went Thomas 
*' Lancastre into a chapel, denying to rendre hymself 
" to Harkeley, and said, looking on the crucifix. Good' 
** Lord, I rendre myself to thee, and put me yn-to 
" thy mercy. Theji they toke of his cote armoreres 
** and put on hym a ray cote or goune, one of his 
♦* mennes' liveryes; and, carried him, by water, to 
** York, where they threw balles of dyrte at hym. And 
** the residue of the baron's part, were persuid from 
" place to place; and, to the chirch-hold was no reve- 
** rence gyven 5 and, the father pursuid the sunne, and 
** the sunne, the father. 

** At this batayle were taken^ on the baron's parte, 
*' syr Roger Clyfford, sir John Montbray, syr Willi* 
** am Tuchet, syr William de Fitz-William, and di- 
** vers other barons ; and, sir Hugh Dandeley was 
** taken the day after, and sent to the king ; and after, 
** put yn prison, and should have been put to detb, 
" but, that he had married Gilbert of Clare's daughter, 
*' the kyng's niece; syr Bartholemew Badelesmere was 
** taken at Stowe-parke, in the manor of the bishop of 
** Lincoln, that was his nephew, 

** The kyng hearing of this discomfiture, cam 
** with the Dispensars, and other nobles, his adherents, 
** to Pontefracte. Syr Andrew Harkeley brought 
*' Thomas of Lancastre, to Pontefracte, to the kyng ; 
*^ and, there was put in a towie, that be had uewly 



BOROtTGHBRIDGE. SSS" 

** made, toward theabbay; and, after juged in the 
** hall, sodenly, by the justices, syr Hugh Dispensar, 
" the father 5 syr Aimer, counte of Pembroke; syr 
** Edmunde, counte of Kent; syr John de Brit'ayne; 
** and syr Robert Malmethor, that pronounced hi's 
** judgment: Then Thomas Lancastre sayd, Shaul 
** I dy without answer f Then a certayne Gascoyne 
** toke him ayay, and put a pillid broken hat or hoode 
** on his hedde, and set him on a lene white jade, with- 
** out bridle: Thus he was caryed, sum throwing 
** ^elottes of dyrt at hym ; and, having a freer precher, 
•* for his confessor, with hym, on-toahylle, withowte 
** the toune; where he knelid down, toward the este, 
** on-tylle one Hughin de Muston caused him to turne 
*' his face towarde Scotknde, wher kneling, a villayne, 
** of London, cut off his hedde ^ ii. cal., Aprilis, 
** A. D. 1321." 

Thus fell one of the most powerful noblemep, Eng- 
land ever gave birth to ; who constantly employed his 
power, in endeavouring to secure to the people, their 
privileges and liberties. 

The following noblemen were, also, executed, at 
Pontefracte, the day after: — Lord Warren de Lisle, 
lord William Toucbet, lord Thomas Mandute, Hen- 
ry de Bradburne, lord Fitz- William, the younger, 
and lord William Cheney ; the lords Clifford, Mow- 
bray, and Deynville, were executed at York. 

Pn raising the banks, to prevent floodS| at tlii« 



334 BOKOUGHBHIDGE. 

place, in the year 1792; a great number of human 
bones, with pieces of broken swords and other armor, 
were found, a h'ttle below the bridge; most probably, 
-the remains of the slain, in this battle. 

The manor of Aldburgh, of which this is a part, 
remained vested in the crown, from the conquest to 
the reigji of Charles L; when it was sold, by that mb* 
narch, to certain citizens of London ; from whom, it 
passed through several hands, till the year 1701, when 
it was purchased, by John, duke of Newcastle ; in 
which noble family, it still remains. 

A little westward of the bridge, are those stupeji- 
dous monuments, of antiquity, called 

The Arrows : 

The Y are threelarge obelisks^ of a pyramidical form, 
fluted towards the top, by their continual exposure to 
the weather. They stand nearly in a line, from north 
to south. Some have supposed them to be factitious, 
and not real stone; as there is no quarry of that sorted 
stone, within less than 10 miles of the place; and that 
they are too large, to have been brought from such a 
distance. This supposition is entirely removed, by the 
instance of the vast pile, at Stone-henge, whose stones 
were brought 15 miles ; and, the obelisk before saint 
Peter's, at Rome, which is 85 feet in height, and was 
brought from Egypt, by the order of Julias Ca&sarj 



BOROUGHBRIDGE, 335 

or, the great granite rock, destined for the pedestal 
of the statue of the Czar Peter, the great, whose 
weight was 1200 tons. This immense stone heing 
found in a swamp, the count Carburi, of Cefalonia, 
raised it thereout, and drew it upon rolling balls, 
several miles, by land, then embarked it on a float, 
Jind conducted it down to Petersburgh, between two 
«hipsj and, again disembarked it. "This work," 
says governor Pownal, ** appears to me, not only the 
** greatest operation of mechanics, which was ever 
** effected in our world, but unique." 

In the year 1709, the ground, about the centre obe- 
lisk, was opened nine feet wide. At first, a good soil 
was found, about a foot deep ; and then, a course of 
stones, rough, and of several kinds, but most were 
large pebbles, laid in a bed of coarse grit and clay, 
and so for four or five courses round ; under these, was 
a strong clay, so hard, that the spade could not affect 
it; this was near two yards deep from the surface ; and, 
a little lower, was the bottom of the stone, resting up- 
on clay;* As much of the stone as was within ground, 
Vfos a little thicker than that part exposed to the wea- 
ther. The entire height, is SO feet 6 inches, from the 
bottom. 



• The foundation round the bottom of this obelisk, and that of the 
wall of Isurium, being pebbles and day, the primitive cement of the 
kritons; shew them both to have been constructed by the same people: 
The knowledge of preparing and using lime, was first brought here, hj 
&e romans. 



336 EOROUGHBIIIDGE.' 

The marks of the chisel, upon this, beneath ground, 
assure us they are not composition, but natural stone ; 
and that, of the most common sort we have in the 
north of England, called the coarse rag, or mill-stone 
grit : Large rocks of the same stone, and from whence 
probabl}^ these obelisks were taken, are at Plumpton, 
before-mentioned, and within 10 miles of this place. 

Dr. Stukeley supposes them to have been erect- 
ed, long before the arrival of the romans in Bri- 
tain 5 and, that here was, in british times, the great 
Panegyrc of the druids ; the midsummer meeting of 
all the country round, to celebrate the great quarterly 
sacrifice, accompanied with sports, games, races, and 
all kinds of exercises, with universal festivity. This 
was like the Panathenea, the Olympian, Isthmian, and 
Nemean meetings, and games, among the greciansj 
and that those obelisks were the metae of the races ; 
The remembrance of which, is transmitted in the 
present great fair, held at Boroughbridge, on saint 
Barnabas's day. Dr. Stillingfleet was of opinion, they 
were british deities \ and grounded it, upon the custom 
of the Phoenicians and the greeks ; — nations, that were 
undoubtedly acquainted with Britain, before the arri- 
val of the romans y who set up unpolished stones, to 
the honor of their gods. The origin of all idolatry, is 
almost the same. The Mercury of old Greece, was 
not that winged herald, now represented, but a square 
§tone \ nor was Bacchus more shapely. Before the 



BOROUGHBRIDGE. 337 

time of Daedalus, the greek architect, unhewn stones 
were worshipped by all Greece. 

Pekh A PS it will not be the most improbable of all the 
conjectures that have been formed, concerning these 
obelisks, to suppose they were found here by the re- 
mans j and used, by them, for the metae^ round which 
the horses turn, at their chariot races. This suppo- 
sition will apipear the more probable, when we consi- 
der their form, their situation, and distance from each 
other; in which, we find such a similarity betwixt 
these remains, and several of the circuses at Rome, 
as makes it almost self-evident. The roman circus 
was of an oblong form; through the midst of which^ 
standing in a line, were the obelisks, placed at certain 
distances. The first, from which the racers began 
their course, was called the 7neta prima ; on the top of 
this, was placed the figure of an egg, in honor of Cas- 
tor and Pollux, as the meta ultima was adorned with 
that of a dolphin, in honor of Neptune ; and being, 
also, the swiftest of all animals. The order in which 
the chariots stood, was determined by lot ; and, the 
person who presided at the games, gave the signal for 
starting, by dropping a napkin, or cloth; when, the 
chain of the Hermuli being withdrawn, they sprung for- 
ward; and, whoever first ran seven times round the 
course, was victor. Their manner of running was alwa3^s 
such, as to keep the metae on the left-hand.* The shape 

* See doctor Adams's Roman Antiquities. 

e F 



338 



BOROUGHBRIDGE* 



of these obelisks, is nearly the same as those remainiii^ 
in some of the circuses at Rome. 

Supposing a course to be formed, of an oblong 
figure, including these obelisks, as before described j 
seven thnes round such course, would be sibout five 
miles. 



THE CIRCUS MAXIMUS, AT ROME. 




The circumstance, also, of their foundation, de- 
serves our attention 5 being bedded round, with the 
same materials as the walls of Isurium, /. e., pebbles 
and blue clay ; which evidently shows them both to 
have been the work of the same people. As to the 
ornaments, which might once have adorned the sum* 
mits of these obelisks, we cannot expect to seethe least 
vestage of them, at this day. 

The north obelisk, is 18 feet high; and is 
supposed to weigh near 36 tons. 

Th£ centrb obelisk, is 199 feet distant from 



JiEWBY. 339 

the first, ^ feet 6 inches high i and, supposed to weigh 
SO tons. 

The south obelisk, S60 feet distant from the 
middle one, is 22 feet 4 inches high ; and, supposed 
to weigh 30 tons. 

Three miles from Boroughbridge, is 

NEWBY; 

Situated on the eastern bank of the river Ure. 
In the time of Edward L, Alexander de Nubie held 
this territory ; who was succeeded therein, by Roger, 
his son and heir. 

In the reign of Charles II., sir John Crosland, knt, 
was seated herej who died, in the year I670, and 
was buried at Ripon ; where his monument remains. 

He was succeeded by sir Edward Blacket, bart., 
eldest son of sir Walter Blacket, of Newcastle-upon- 
Tyne, hart; who rebuilt the house, at the expence of 
<£32,000. He w^as thrice married, had a numerous 
issue J and, was succeeded, in title and estate, by his $oa 
Edward ; who, dying without issue, was succeeded by 
his nephew, sir Edward Blacket, bart.5 he died, ia 
the year 1718, and was buried at Ripon. 

He was succeeded, in this estate, by John, his second 
surviving son ; who sold it to Richard Weddell, esq.: 
He was succeeded by William Weddell, esq., his son; 
"by whose death, April 29, 1792, this, with other es- 
tates, devolved to the right honorable Thomas Weddell 
Robinson, lord Grantham. 

2 F5 



o40 NEWBY. 

The mansion is of brick -, and, commands a ffne- 
prospect over the country, almost to York. The si- 
tuation was chosen, and the building designed, by sir 
Christopher Wren, about the year 1705. 

The avenues, shrubberies, and walks, are disposed 
with the utmost elegance. 

In the Hall 

Is an organ ; on the front of which, is a Jatm, pre- 
senting his syrinx. Above the organ, stands a lion, 
with a cupid, seated on his back, playing on a lyre 5 
the harmony of which, seems to divest the. royal beast 
of his natural ferocity, agreeable to the words of the 
poet: 

*' Music has charms to sooth a savage breast; 
" To soften rocks, and bend the knotted oak," 

Over the fire-place, is a picture of saint Margaret, 
by Carracci: A fine landscape, with a large group of 
cattle, hj Rosso de Tivoli : A large inlaid table, of 
all the specimens of ancient and modern marble, to 
the number of 171 pieces j also, two other tables, of 
egyptian granite. 

The Parlor, 

Twenty feet square; a chimney-piece, and table, 
of egyptian granite. Over the chimney-piece, is a 
full-length picture of mr. Weddell, when at Rome, 
pointing to a statue of Cleopatra ; Thomas, the first 
iord Grantham, and his lady; and Thomas, the late 
lord Grantham, by sir Joshua Rei/nolds, 



KEWBYt 341 

TJie Dining-room, 

Sixty feet, by 20 5 fhe ceiling is supported by four 
elegant fluted pillars, with enriched capitals, divided 
into compartments, painted in a very beautiful and 
pleasing manner. Passing from hence, through the 
anti-chamber, you enter 

The Drawing'^room, 

Forty feet, by 26. This room is hung with the 
richest, and most beautiful tapestry, in this kingdom^ 
©r perhaps in the world ; exciting the admiration of 
every beholder : Here nature is exactly copied, and 
the figures and flowers, represented as accurately as 
under the finest pencil. The two pier glasses, are eight 
feet long, and five broad j under each, on a gilt frame 
of excellent workmanship, is a large table, of the most 
beautiful verd antique marble. The ceiling is divided 
into compartments, by cornices, elegantly worked, 
and gilt 5 in the divisions, are Phaeton, attended by 
the hours ; Diana, and her nymphs j and Venus, and 
the Graces ; all by Zucchiro, 

The Library^ 

TwiTNTY feet square. Over the chimney-piece, 
Apollo, rewarding poetry. 

The Statue-gallery : 

This icpository, consists of a suit of three apart- 
2 F 3 



34£ NEWBY. 

ments; the first, is square; the second, a rofunda, 
with adorned ceiling; and, the third, another square. 
The statues, are as follow : A beautiful Venus, antique, 
of delicate workmanship, inimitable grace, and sien- 
tific proportion; it is, indeed, the jewel of this col- 
'lection : Apollo, an antique whole-length statue* 
resting himself against the trunk of a tree, after 
having destroyed the serpent, 'Python: A Silenus, with 
a skin full of wine: A small muse: A girl, crying^, 
with a bird's nest in her hand: A bust of Hercules? 
placed on a tripod, with three basso-relievos, of va- 
rious figures of bacchantes, uponk: Adacianking: 
A boy, laughing, with a bird in his hand, very fine : 
Epicurus : Galatea : A bust of Caracalla : A statue of 
Geta: A bust of Septimus Severus : Ganymede, of- 
fering a small bird to an eagle : A woman, incognito : 
A brutus : A fine statue of a muse : A bust of Caligula • 
A very fine statue of Minerva : A Faustina : A bust of 
Jupiter : h. piping boy : A figure, representing the four 
elements : A negro's head : An immense antique sarco- 
phagus, of veined marble, grey and white, 20 feet in 
circumference, nine in length, ^n^ in height, and 
three in width; which will contain 214 gallons: It 
rests on four large feet, representing the paws of a lion ; 
above each of which, is carved, a head of one of those 
animals.— When this extraordinary, and very curious 
vessel was found, we are told, it contained some re- 
mains of a human skeleton, enclosed in a sheet of 
silver. Two small sarcophaguses; one of which, is or- 



NEWBV. 343 

namented with basso-relievos of children, playing 
upon it: A bust of Augustus: A bqst of Alexander, 
the great : A bust of Apollo : A very fine bust of Mi- 
nerva: A bust of mr.Weddell, placed on a tripodical 
altar: a small statue of Bacchus, with a satyr: A tri- 
pod, adorned with basso-relievos of victories; on 
which, is a stork, with a serpent in it's beak : A dog's 
head: A small statue of Mercury: x\ very fine figure 
of Hermaphroditus, reclined on a mattress; (see OcicCs 
Metam., hook IV. J A bust of Lucilla : And, a bust of 
a young Brutus. 

Great Staircase : 

Two very fine columns of the most beautiful mar- 
ble, with pilasters of the same; behind which, stands^ 
a large table, of Sicilian jasper, on a gilded frame : 
Above this, is a picture of Judith, shewing Holofernes'^ 
head to the people; by Cahhresi: On each side, is a 
basso-relievo; one representing Antoninus Pius; and, 
the other, the triumph of Aurelian, — Where the illus- 
trious, but unfortunate Zenobia, queen of Palmyra^ 
was led, a captive, in chains of gold. 

Best Bed-chamber : 

Twenty-four feet square; hung with Indian pa- 
per j on which, the flowers and foliage, birds, and 
«ther figures, are represented, in the most lively and 
beautiful colors. On each side, is a dressing-room^ 
- of suitable elegance ; with hangings, of the same ex- 
cellent pattern. 



i 
344 THORNTON-BRIDGE HOUSE. 

Lodge J in the Flower-garden: 

A billiard- table : A bust of Ariadne : A bust of Bac- 
chus. Over the chimney-piece, is a basso-relievo of 
Apollo, pursuing Daphne. On the wainscot, are 
a number of paintings, representing monkeys, in a 
great variety of whimsical habits, and various attitudes. 

Returning from Newby, to Milby, four miles; 
and from thence, four miles more, through a level 
country; BxafFerton- hall, and church, appearing on the 
right, you arrive at 

THORNTON-BRIDGE HOUSE: 

The ancient mansion was taken down, and rebuilt, 
about the year 1804. It had been successively the 
residence of the ancient families of Courtney, Ne- 
viLE, and Strickland. Sir Thomas Strickland, of 
Thornton-bridge, was created a knight banneret, in 
the field, by king Charles I.: He was one of the pri- 
vy council to king James IL5 whom he followed into 
France, and died there : He was interred in the church 
of the english nuns, at Rhoan ; where a handsome 
Baonument was erected, to his memory. 

The arms of this family are — sable; three escallops^ 
•within a bordure, ingrailed, argent. Supporters,'^ 
On the dexter side, a stag; on the sinister, ahull, with 
a star on his breast. Crest. — On a close helmet, a 
fuU-topt holly bush. Motto.'^*' Sans ni2ir 



TOPCLiFFle. 345 

One mile from hence, are the villages of 

HELPERBY & BRAFFERTOX; 

Whose church, dedicated to saint Austin, is situ- 
ated on the eastern bank of the river Swale; a river, 
famous, in the early ages of Christianity ^ wherein, Au- 
stin or Paulinus, about the year 620, baptized their 
christian converts, to the number of 10,000 men, 
besides women and children ; from which circumstance, 
this river was styled. The Jordan of England. 

On the south side of the chancel, are the arms of 
the Neviles, and other quarterings, carved on stone 5 
and underneath, in Saxo-monastic characters : 

6rate pro anima radulphi nevile, 

fundator— 

soli deo honor et gloria. 

On the largest bell is, also, inscribed — 

RADULPHVS NEVILE, ARMIGER, I. H. S., 1598. 

In the window of the chancel, painted on glass, are 
the arms of Nevile — Impaling, azure; a cross bo- 
tone, or. 

At the distance of three miles, from Thomtoa- 
b ridge, is 

TOPCLIFFE ; 
•Which Iceland thus describes: "It isan uplandkh 



S46 TOPCLIFFE. 

town; whose pretty manor-place, stands on a hill, a« 
bout half a mile from the town, almost on the ripe of 
the Swale." Here is a fair, for sheep, July 175 and> 
the day following, for horses, and horned cattle. 

In the year 949, the states of Northumberland as- 
sembled at this place ; and, took the oath of allegi- 
,ance to Eadred, the west saxon ; who wag the first mo- 
narch, that was styled king of Britain. 

William de Percy had this manor, with many 
others, given him by the conqueror; and, had here, 
in the 20th of William L, 26 carucates of land, tax- 
able; 85 villeins, and 14 borders. Here was then 
a wood, half a mile long, and half a mile broad. The 
whole manor was three miles Iqng, and two broad. 
Rent, £5. 

The mansion of this very ancient and noble fami- 
ly, stood at about half a mile distance from the village | 
the ruins of which, are now called 

Maiden-bower : 

In the year 1489, the parliament had granted king 
Henry a subsidy, for carrying on the war in Bretagne. 
This tax was found so heavy, in the north, that the 
whole country was in a flame. Henry Percy, the 
fourth earl of Northumberland, then lord lieutenant 
for Yorkshire, wrote, to inform the king of the discon- 
tent; and praying an abatement : The king wrote back, 
signifying, that the tax should be paid, to the utmogt^ 



TOPCLIFFE. 347 

and no mitigation, whatsoever, allowed. This message 
being delivered, by the earl, with too little caution, 
the populace rose; and, supposing him to be the pro- 
moter of their calamity, broke into the house, at 
TopclifFe, and slew the earl, with several of his at- 
tendants. 

This nobleman, married a datighter of William 
Herbert, the first earl of Pembroke; who, together 
with her lord, hath a monument in Beverley-minster.* 

Thomas Percy, earl of Northumberland, who 
raised a rebellion against queen Elizabeth, narrowly 
escaped being takeB, at his house here, but, was af- 
terwards seized and beheaded, at York, in the year 1572. 

In the year 1646, the scots' army lay in this neigh- 
bourhood i and, it was agreed, betwixt the english 



• The following extract from the Northumberland liousehold b«ok:» 
contalmug the regulations and establishments of the fiftli earl of North- 
umberland, at lus castles, in Y(M^shire, in the year 1512; shovrs 'v^at 
were then the viands of a momi&g meal, with people of the first dii* 
tinction : 

BREARFASTIS FOR FLESH DAYS. 

Breakfastis for my lorde, and my lady: 
Puret^ ft loof of brede, in trenchors, two manchets, one quart of here, 
H quart of wine, half a chyne of mutton, or els a cbyne of beif boiled* 

B&EAKFASTIS FOR THE 2fVR.CV| 

Tot my lady Margaret t and mr, Tngram Percy; 
Item, a manohet, one quarte of here, and three mutton bon3rs boiled* 

»REAKFA8TIS FOR MY LADY'S CEKTYLWOMEN : 

Item, a loof of household brede, a pottell of here, and three mattOB 
tonys boiled, or els a pece of beif boiled. 



348 TOECLIFFE. 

parliament, and the scots' commissioners, that when 
100,000 pounds were paid, by the former 5 and, the 
money arrived at Topcliffe, the later, with their army, 
should quit all their garrisons, on the south of Tyne, 
M'ithin 10 days. 

On the llth of May, 1646, king Charles I.) pass- 
ed through this village, with the scots' army, on their 
inarch from Newark to Newcastle. The king dined 
here 5 and, took leave of sir Henry Slingsby, hart, 
one of his most faithful servants.* 

The Churchy 

A vicarage, dedicated to saint Columbus, was 
grianted, by William de Percy, in 1226, to the cathe- 
dral of York ; the dean and chapter of York, are 
patrons. Here are several monuments; the most re- 
markable, are those of Thomas de Topclyff, and his 
lady, whose effigies, at full-length, on a grave-stone, 
inlaid with brass, are in the north aile. He died, 1365. 
This family was very ancient, and seemed to have 
been attached to the Percys : — They bore, for their 
arms, per pale, or, and sable, three crescents coun- 
terchanged. 

John Topcliffe, was rector of saint Mary's, 
eostlegate, York, 1302. 

John Topcliffe, rector of All-saints, in York, 
i466. 

* Vide sir Henry Slingsby*s naeDwifS. 



BOND-GATES, ' 349 



STAGE IX.. 

Harrogate^ to Brimham'TOcks. 

BOND-GATES,* 

JL wo miles and a half from Ripley. Here is a 
free-school; endowed, in the year 176Q, by rear-admi- 
ral Robert Long : It hath since received the addition 
of a valuable library; consisting of 67 folios, 101 
-quartos, 344 octavos, 19 duodecimos, 20 miscella- 
nies, 15 pamphlets, and 13 manuscripts; in all, 569: 
besides a pair of globes, two telescopes, and other 
instruments : They are kept in handsome cases ; and 
placed in a neat room, eight yards long, and four 
broad ; in which, are the pictures of the donor, and 
his lady> by Highmore. 

Leaving Bond-Gates school; and, proceeding to- 
wards Pateley-bridge, about two miles, you arrive at 
a farm-house, called .. , .. — ^-^-^ 



* OrBound*Gates; this beiagoae of the boundaries of KnaresbrDugb 
forest, as menteoned ia The Perambulatwn-'UtQ]y published. 
2 G 



350 



BRIMHAM-HALI., 



Brimham^hall : 

tlERE, tradition says, was originally a roman tower, 
or fortress J which was, afterwards, converted into 
Brimham-grange, a dairy-house to Fountains-abbey ; 
and, has lately furnished materials, for erecting the 
present farm-house, barn, and other offices, which 
are situated at the bottom of a small dale, close by a 
rivulet, which nearly washes the walls, on the westem 
side. On the eastern side, are seen the remains of a 
large canal, or fish-pond ; which, they say, was suppli- 
ed with water, by means of leaden pipes, conducted 
from a reservoir, now a pond, on the summit of the 
hill above : The pond is separated, at present, from the 
high-road, by a stone fence 3 and, is of an irregular form. 
The house, and barn, are built of squared grit stones ; 
several of these stones, have inscriptions on themj 
some in roman, others, in saxo-monastic characters : It 
appears, as if they owed their preservation entirely to 
the use to which they were applied, in carrying up the 
building ; for some are inverted, and several are placed 
on the inside of a cow-house. 

Jfragments 

of 

ROMAN INSCRIPTIONS. 



CORVMJ 



SNO 



NORES 



OHN 



BRIMHAM»ROCK«. 351 

Perhaps, the first may apply either to the prcefec- 
tus ascor urn prim m ; or, to the tyibioius cohort is a elite 
daiorwm primce ; both of which corps, belonged to the 
Legio VI, Victrix^ distributed in these parts. These 
letters, are all cut in alto-relievo ; and, on the same spe- 
cies of hard grit, as the romans appear to have gene, 
rally selected, for their sculptures, in this part of the 
island. 

A LITTLE before the dissolution of religious hou- 
ses, the monks of Fountains-abbey had the following- 
stores and plate, at this house : 

Tvt^ENTY quarters of oats; and, 100 loads of hay. 

Plate. — One chalice, of silver, weight, 11 oun- 
ces—one goblet, with cover of silver, and gilt ; weight, 
11 ounces— one silver salt; weight, eight ounces;— 
seven silver spoons, 9j ounces. 

Proceeding, from Brimham-hall, about a mile 
forward, brings you to a gate, leading to 

BRIMHAM.ROCKS: 

{Brimbetn; i.e., High-'wood.'i On quitting the 
road, you ascend up the hill, through a broken and 
craggy path; which presents a scene, so magnifi- 
cent, awful, and rudely picturesque, as to astonish 
every beholder. Nothing, one would think, except 
some convulsions of nature, the most violent and sin- 
gular, could have shaken from their firm beds, and 
hurled and entangled, such immense and innumerable 
2 G 2 



35S BRIMHAM-ROCKS. 

blocks of prodigious density, into such confused piks 
and irregular positions, overspreading so extensive a 
space.* - 

Two, in particular, seem to remain, as perpetual 
monuments j to show, that this wonderful disruption 
was occasioned by a most tremendous earthquake, or 
concussion of the earth. They consist of solid mass- 
es, appearing near SO feet square ; which have been 
xifted and disjointed, from top to bottom, leaving an 
hiatus of about four feet wide ; and, exibiting on the 
opposite faces, such an exact conformity of projecti- 
ons, depressions, and hneaments, in general, as to de- 
monstrate that they were once united, and formed 
together one huge compact block. 

Some of those masses, which lie scattered horizon- 
tally, exceed 21 feet in length, -by seven in breaidth, 
and three in thickness; and, seem to have been de^ 
tached, and precipitated a considerable height, from 
the summit of tho&e lofty ranges,; which stand tower- 
ing near them. 

They all appear to be the common grit of this 
country ; for the most part, ranged in layers of greater 
or lesser dimensions. The interstices between these 
strata of rock, more particularly of the detached and 
scattered masses, seem composed of a coarse sand or 
gravel, intermixed with roundish crystalline pebbles, 
in general small, and similar to what abound on the 
sea-shore. These sometimes are found adhering so 

• About 40 acres. 



BRIMHAM-ROCKS, 353 

rfrmly to the surface of the rock, that it requires a 
smart stroke to separate them. 

Other masses, seem composed of a looser or more 
friable kind of grit, that has readily yielded to the cor- 
rotions of the weather, which have sapped the foun- 
dations, and caused those rocking-stones, observed 
here, of which there are several ; two, supposed to weigh 
near 100 tons each, the others, much inferior. 

They are entirely different from the rocking or lo- 
gan-stones of the cornish druids, both in figure and 
position : These of Brimham, are wholly mis-shapen» 
and bear on two very obtuse points, of their lowec 
surface ; and, there are several, not endowed with this 
movable capacity, at present 3 which, in all likelihood, 
may possess it in a few years more, after the granulous 
stratum, at their bottom, shall have been wasted and 
excavated sufficiently, by tempests. 

The logan-stones of Cornwall, appear evidently 
moulded, by art, into equili brio, and rest on a simple 
point or pivot : The idea of the latter, may have been, 
borrowed from the operations of nature ; and, these 
natural rocking-stones of Brimham, may have inspi- 
red the idea. 

Whether the druids of Mona were acquainted 
with these astonishing ruins, is uncertain. No place 
seems better adapted tp the solemn mysteries of pagati 
theology, than this. 

On the first of May, the day dedicated to BelinuSf 
•r the sun v these people held an annual festival: TJiey 
2 G 3 



354 BRIMHAM-ROCKS. 

kindle prodigious fires, in all their sacred places ; ani 
performed sacrifices, with many other solemnities. 

The situation overtops the adjacent country; and, 
commands a most extensive prospect. Imagination 
here, might conceive, the aspiring castles of the gi- 
ant Titans, and view the cloud-clapped battlements 
laid prostrate, by the irresistible hand of Omnipo- 
tence — 'those battlements, which Omnipotence alone 
was able to subvert. Here, too, fancy paints the ves- 
tiges of two noble amphitheatres ; where a flat area, 
of near a circular form, is surrounded with a group of 
lofty columns ; and, whose entablatures are beautiful- 
ly mantled, with tufts of ling. But, the scenery is so 
various, from different points of view, and change 
of light and shade, that it is impossible either for lan- 
guage to give it adequate expression, or convey a sa- 
tisfactory representation. 

The cylindrical apertures, are very numerous, and 
of different diameters : Some perforate the rocky mass, 
entirely; others, reach only a few feet : But, two of 
them, called 

The Caimon'TockSj 

Are exceedingly remarkable. The diameter of 
their perforations is about 12 inches; and nearly, if 
not accurately^ uniform from end to end. One of 
them penetrates a huge bulk of rock, accessible at the 
lower end of the aperture ; the more elevated extremi- 
ty terminates at the opposite side, where the face of 



BRIMHAM-ROCKS. 356 

the rock, is perpendicular ; and, the opening, inacces- 
sible, as well as invisible. To a person, stationed on 
this side, the voice of another, placed at the mouthy 
or lower extremity of the cylinder, sounds most dis- 
mally ; and, as if it issued from the very centre of the 
cliff. Immediately above this orifice of the cylinder, 
and, on the very summit of the rock, are two small 
grooves, about two feet asunder, and of equal dimen- 
sions; they are perfectly circular, of about two inches 
in width, and the same, in depth; and, might serve 
for the insertion of two pedestals, or props, which, it 
is not improbable, may formerly have supported the 
figure of some oracular idol ; for these tubes, which are 
internally rugose, were capable of augmenting the 
sound of the voice, and giving it's tone a degree of al- 
most supernatural vehemence, and tierrible solemnity ', 
and, by the artful management of the druid priests, 
might, occasionally, become instruments for the pro- 
mulgation of oracular decrees. 

An ancient monument of druidical superstiti- 
on, is now to be seen, in Westminster; i e.. The 
stone, in th.e coronation chair ; which was called, by 
the ancient irish. Hog fail; or, Xh^ fatal stone : "Ott 
which," says Toland, "the kings of Ireland used to be 
inaugurated, in the times of heathenism, on the hill 
of " Tarah:" Which, being enclosed in a wooden 
chair, was thought to emit a sound, under the rightful 
candidate; (a thing, easily managed by the druids,) 
but, to be mute, under a man of a bad title. The 



356 BRIMHAM-ROCKS. 

druidical oracle, is in verse j and, thus translated: 

'* 77te lowland scots, have rhym*d it thus? 
Except old saws do feign. 

And wizard wits be blind, 
Tlie scots, in place must reign 

Where they this stone shall find.'* 

About a quarter of a mile west of the great can* 
non-rock, is a druid circle, 30 feet in diameter; near 
which, are several small tumuli, or cams; the largest, 
not more than 18 feet in diameter : They are formed 
of earth and stones; and, IS of them, are ranged in 
a circular manner. Two of them were opened, a few 
years ago ; when, some ashes were found, near the bot- 
tom of each, and, the stones bore the marks of fire. 

Here are, also, several large tumuli ; one of which, 
about 80 yards west of the great cannon, measures 150 
feetf in circumference : It is worth remarking, that the 
place, where most of these tumuli are found, is, at this 
day, called •* Graifa-plain," i.e., T/ie piam of graves. 

The following print, is a representation of a very 
singular rock, which must, undoubtedly, have been 
a rock-idoi; or, a stone, consecrated to some principal 
deity : It is 46 feet in circumference, and seems to 
have been separated from the adjoining rock. The 
pedestal it rests upon, is, at the top, only one foot, by 
two feet seven inches. The marks of the tool are 
visible, in many places, particularly on the base of 
the pedestal, which has been shaped into a polygon, 
tending towards a hexagon; but, part of the sides has 



BRIMHAM-ROCKS. 



857 



licen defaced, by time. The hazardous undertaking 
of shaping this rock, and pedestal, is, I think, ano- 
ther proof of the druids having had some knowledge 
of mechanism.* 




Near this rock, is a large slab; which appears to 
have been thrown down, from the top of it : On it'^s 

• Arcbaiologia, vol. iii., page SOQ, 



358 BRIMHAM-ROCltS* 

outward surface, is a bason, 18 inches in diameter; 
and, also, a larger cavity, of an irregular shape. This 
fragment is two feet thick, 15 long, and seven broad. 
Near that very large rock, which appears to have been 
split from top to bottom, is another fragment, with a 
similar cavity and bason, on it's surface; which has > 
also, been thrown down, from the adjoining rock. 
There is not the least doubt, but that most of the 
druidical altars, which the strength or art of man 
could subvert, were either thrown down, or otherwise 
defaced, by the romans, saxons, and danes ; whilst many 
others, on the summits of our highest rocks, have with- 
stood not only all human force, but the conquering 
power of time, and the rage of storms and tempests, 
through a long course of revolving ages. 

That this was a place, set apart, for the celebra- 
tion of religious rites, during"^ the dark ages of pagan 
superstition, there can be little doubt 5 from the great 
number of tumuli seen here, similar in situation to 
those near Stone-henge, within view of the place of so- 
lemn meeting •, and, the like consideration, that the mo- 
derns bury in church-yards, and consecrated grounds. 

In digging for peats, among these rocks, have been 
found the roots and stems of oak, fir, and other trees : 
Branches of the holly, and mountain-ash, are now 
seen, in many parts of this place, issuing from the clefts 
of the rocks. Of plants, here are the cloud-berry, 
whortle-berry,wood-sorrel, climbing fumitory, branch- 
ed polypody j and, heath, with white flowers. 



BRIMHAM-ROCKS. 330 

In the centre of this most picturesque scene, is a 
house, with suitable offices : It was built, for the 
reception of company, resorting to the place, by the 
noble owner of the estate, William, lord Grantley, 
in the year 1792. 

Having viewed these stupendous rocks, we can be 
at no loss in accounting for the Boroughbridge obe- 
lisks—Whether they were drawn from Plumpton, or 
Briraham, is a matter of indifference} here is certaia- 
ly a source, for supplying great numbers of them. 

That this place formerly abounded with all sorts 
of wild beasts, and birds, peculiar to the forest, is 
evident, from the following grants, to the monks of 
Fountains : 

Roger de Mowbray, and Nigel, his son, gave 
to the monks of Fountains, half a carucate of land 
here. 

Roger de Mowbray, Nigel andRobert, his sons^ 
gave all Brimham, to the monks of Fountains ; re* 
serving to themselves, yearly, a buck, a wild-boar, 
a kid, and what birds they should take. 

And, in the year 1280, Roger de Mowbray gave all 
the wild beasts and birds, in the whole forest of 
Brimham, for the use of the infirmary, at Fountains j 
and, allowed the monks to have their own foresters. 

From some parts of this place, is an extensive 
view of the great vale of Nidd; at the bottom of 
which, the river is seen for many miles, till lost in it's 
various windings, amongst the distant mountains. 



360 ALLERTON-MAULEVERER. 



STAGE X.. 

Harrogate^ to AUerton-Mauleverer.'^^Whixley* 
"•^Kirby-halL — ^'Nun-monkton.^-^Benning' 
burgh. — Red-house. 

ALLERTON*.MAULEVERER; 

A HE seat of a. family of thatnamCj for more than 

500 years: The name, ip aneient writings, is called 

Malus Leporarius Mal-ieveror, or t/ie Bad Kunter, 

Arms, — Sable, three greyhounds, current, in pale 

argent, collared, or. 

William Mauleverer, the first of that name, 
after the conquest.'— 'Richard, the first of that name, 
built the old church, here, dedicated to saint Martin. 
Sir John Mauleverer; obit 1400: He married Ele- 
anor, daughter of sir Piers Middleton. — Sir Halneth 
was high-sheriff, 1420, and 1422: He married the 

* ^Wcrf<>7?.--Nathing was more familiar, in former ages, than for 
towns, or territories, to receive names from that sort ©f wood, with 
whicfc tbey abounded. Thorcshy, 



ALLERTON-MAULEVERER. 361 

daughter and heiress of Alexander LutteriL— John, 
the sixth, married Isabel, daughter of sir John Mark- 
enfield. — Sir John, married Alizon, daughter of John 
Banks.'— Sir Thomas, married Elizabeth, daughter 
of John dc la River. — Sir Richard, married Jane, 
daughter of sir Robert Plumpton. — Sir Thomas, marri- 
ed Eleanor, daughter of sir Henry Oughtred. — Sir 
Richard, high-sheriff, 1558. — Sir Thomas, created a 
baronet, in the year 1640; took up arms for the par- 
liament ; raided a reghnent of horse, and another of 
foot, for their service; was governor of Ripon, and 
afterwards of Hull : He married Mary, daughter of 
sir Thomas Wilbraham, knt..— Sir Richard, the se- 
cond baronet, was high-sheriff, 1067.— Sir Thomas, 
the third baronet.— Sir Richard, the fourth baronet, 
married Barbara, daughter of sir Thomas Siingsby, 
bart.: He died, in the year 1713; leaving one son 
and heir, sir Richard Mauleverer, bart.; who died, 
aged 26 years, unmarried; and left the estate, by 
will, to his mother, the lady Barbara; who marri- 
ed, secondly, John, lord Arundel, of Trerice, in 
Cornwall ; by whom he had issue, Richard Arundel, 
esq., master of the mint, and member of parliament, 
for Knarcsb rough : He married lady Frances Manners ; 
by whom, he had several children ; whg all died ia 
their infancy: He dying, in the year 1758, left all 
liis estates to his lady; who died, in the year 1769. 
and left this estate to William Monkton Arundel, vis- 
count Galway ; from whom, it descended to his so^, 
«H 



S6g ALLERTOISF-MAULEVERES. 

Robert, the present viscount ; who, in the year J 7 86, 
sold it to his royal highness, Frederick, dUkeofYork; 
who, with his royal brother, the prince of Wales, re- 
sided here, some time, in the month of October, 
1787 ; and, in the month of June, 1789. The whole 
estate, containing 4525 acres, was purchased by colo^ 
nel Thomas Thornton ; who, in 1805, sold it to the 
right honorable Charles lord Stourton. 

The House 

Is an elegant mansion, built by the duke of York ; 
^nd stands upon an easy rising ground, within four 
miles of Knaresbrough, six from Wetherby, seven 
from Harrogate, and 13 from York ; commanding an 
extensive view of a beautiful and well-cultivated 
country. The breakfast, dining, andDRAWiNG- 
ROOMS, are each SO feet, by^Oj the ball-room, is 
45 feet, by 25. 

ThePark 

Contains 400 acres of exceeding rich land, en- 
fcompassed with a high wall of brick, four miles in 
extent ; has a great variety of ground, and is well 
stocked with deer, and other game. 

On a lofty eminence, shaded with trees, is an 
octagon tower, consisting of two rooms. The 
lentrance, is by a double flight of steps ; both of which, 
and the terrace, round the building, are secured by 



ALLERTON-MAULEVERER. 363 

iron palisades. The first room is 36 feet, by 20; the 
second is 20, by 15. 

The great variety this park affords, of hills and 
dales, thick woods, and scattered groves, with a beau- 
tiful lake, seen from the tower, can only be equalled 
by the distant prospect of fields, woods, villages, and 
seats, channingly interspersed; amongst which, are 
Goldesburgh, the seat of James Starkey, esq.; Rib- 
stone, the seat of sir Henry Goodricke, hart.; Scri- 
ven-park, the seat of sir Thomas Slingsby, hart.; 
Knaresbrough, Harrogate, Harlow-hill, and Almias- 
cliff, with a large extent of Knaresbrough forest. 

The Church 

Was built, soon after the conquest, by Richard 
Mauleverer, son to William, the first of that name* 
It was rebuilt, by Richard Arundel, esq., about the 
year 1745. 

In the east window, are the following paintings, 
on glass : Moses, the crucifixion. Faith, Hope, Cha- 
rity, Religion, and the east and west views of the 
church. 

In the choir, formerly the Mauleverer's, are two 
whole-length figures, cut in wood, but much defaced, 
of knights crusaders; they are in the usual attitude, 
completely armed. Near these, are fine and perfect 
whole-length figures, of Catherine, the widow of sir 
Thomas Mauleverer, who was the daughter of sir Miles 
^ H 2 



\ 
364 AjLLERTON-MAUJuEYERER. 

Stapleton; .and her second husband, John Hop- 
ton, of Hungerskill, esq.; she died January 31, 1703; 
and he, on the 24th of April following. The arms of 
Hopton, are placed at the head of this monument. 

On a flat stone of blue marble, inlaid with a plate 
of brass, are the effigies of sir John Mauleverer, and 
Eleanor, his wife, daughter of sir Piers Middleton j 
he died, November SO, 1400, 

The Priory 

Was of the order of saint Benedict; subject to the 
abbey of Marmonstier, in France; founded, in the 
reign of Henry II., by Richard Mauleverer; who gave 
them the church here, and several parcels of land, with 
the mill, and mill-pool, in this village. — ^They had, 
also, lands in Dunsford, and Grafton. 

King Henry II. exempted them from payment 
of all exactions of wapentakes, trithings, and dane- 
geld; and from all manner of secular exactions, and 
foreign service. This convent was dissolved in the 
reign of Henry VI.; and, it's revenues settled on king's 
college, Cambridge. 

Priors y of Allerton-Mauleverer : 

1, Sir John de Passu - . . . — . 

2, Dionis Kaburus IS62, 

3, William de Virgulto 1364. 

4, John Pratt, alias, Newport .... 1364. 

5, Guidg de Burc 14—. 



CLAKO-HILL. 365 

Opposite to AUerton-park, is a very remarkable 
eminence, called 

CLARO-HILL;* 

The place, from whence this wapentake is denomina- 
ted. It's situation is near the road from Boroughbridge 
to Wetherby. The ascent, from the base to the sum* 
mit, on the north side, is 228 feet 

Here, in saxon times, was held the gemote, or as- 
sembly of the people of this wapentake, for the 
transacting of all public concerns, relative to the dis- 
trict j and where, by the laws of king Edgar, every 
free man, in such district, was obliged to attend. 

The hundred, or wapentake courts, were, by statute 
of the 14th of Edward III., discontinued; and, the 
business, removed to the county courts. 

The custom of the people meeting, to receive the 
governor of the wapentake, is distinctly mentioned 
in the laws of Edward, the confessor. The person 
appointed, repaired to the usual place of meeting for 
that purpose ; and, was there met, by the principal per- 
sons in that district. After he had quitted his horse, 
and placed himself en some elevation, he held up his 
spear 5 each person then approached him, and touch- 
ed his spear with theirs — which ceremony of touching 
of armor, was looked upon to confirm that communi- 

* Clarion, a trampet. Perhaps that instrume»t vas used h«re, io 
call the people together, 

^ H 3 



366 TEN-LOW, ^ WHIXLEYt 

iy in one common interest; and, hence the term wea- 
fontouchf or, weapontack* On the top of this mount* 
Is placed a fane; the roof of which, in form of an oc- 
tagon, is supported by 8 pillars, 10 feet high; and, 
presents the idea of one of the ancient fanes, placed 
in a similar situation, almost secluded from the public 
©ye, by the shady foliage of surrounding trees. 

About half a mile from hence, near the village of 
Flaxby, is an eminence, called 

TEN-LOW: 

It's circumference, at the base, is near 600 feet ; 
height of the slope, about 90 feet. On the summit, is 
a circular area, 12 feet in diameter. The situation, 
and wide extent of country seen from hence, seem 
to point out this hill, as very proper for a eastrum ex- 
phratorum. The etymology also favors the conj ecture \ 
being probably derived from tcnty to watch, or guard} 
^nd/«w, a hill. 

Two mile$ from Allerton, is the village of 

WHIXLEY; 

Ancient l y Suixiei/ ; situated on the roman road, 
leading from Aldburgh to Abberford, &c.. It was, 
for several ages, the seat of a younger branch of 

* Thoresby's Pucat. Iee4f 



vrHixLEY. 367 

the Tancred family, who bore for their arms, a cheT- 
ron, between three escallop-shells, gules. — Cre^U- 
On a wreath, an olive-tree, vert, fructed, proper, 

Richard Tancred, esq.,* married Adeliza, daugh- 
ter of Jordan Busscy ; had issue, William, and Ni- 
cholas. 

William Tancred, esq., married Priscilla, 
daughter of Gilbert Basset, esq.; had issue, Herbert, 
and John. 
Herbert Tangred, esq,, married Margery, daugh- 
ter of Hugh Stavely, esq.; had issue, William, Wal- 
ter, Herbert, and one daughter. 

William Tancred, esq., steward of the honor of 
Knaresbrough, temp, Henry III., married Taifame, 
daughter of Oliver Aldburgh, esq.; had issue, John, 
Walter, George, William, Thomas, Nicholas, Peter, 
and one daughter. 

JohnTancred, esq., married Margery, daughter 
•f sir Ralph Babthorpe ; and had issue, three son$, and 
one daughter. 

William Tancred, esq., judge of assize, temp. 
Edward III., married Arabella, daughter of sir Wil- 
liam Ross, of Youlton ; had issue, William; 

William Tancred, esq., married Margaret, 
daughter of sir Thomas Dalsarver, of Bransby, knt.; 
and had issue> two sons, and one daughter. 



-• This pedigree is tales £lr«m » paiatiAg, o& c&€ ^deof lb« stiusiasc^ 
01 Whuaej-balk 



338 WHIXLEY. 

Hugh Tancred, esq., married Diana, daughter 
of Henry Southwell, esq.j had issue, two sons, and 
one daughter. 

William Tancred, esq., married Alice, daugh- 
ter of sir Richard Aldburgh, knt; had issue, two sons, 
and two daughters. 

William Tancred, esq., married Margaret, 
daughter of John Slingsby, of Scriven, esq.} had is- 
sue, one daughter. 

William Tancred, esq., married Anna, daugh- 
ter of John Pullein, of Killinghall, esq.; had issue, 
four sons, and three daughters. 

Thomas Tancred, esq., married Jane, daughter 
of Bernard Paver, of Branton, esq.; had issue, two 
sons, and two daughters. 

Charles Tancred, esq., married Barbara, daugh- 
ter of William Wyvill, of Osgodby, esq.; had issue^ 
two sons, and four daughters. 

SiK Richard Tancred, knt., married Mary, 
daughter of Francis Nevile, of Chevit, esq,; had is- 
sue, seven sons, and one daughter. 

Charles Tancred, esq., married Dorothy, 
daughter of sir Christopher Wyvill, of Constable- 
Burton, bart.; had issue, two sons, and four daughters* 

Christopher Tancred, esq,„ master of the 
harriers, to king William III., married Catherine, 
daughter of sir John Armytage, of Kirklees, bart.f 
had issue, three sons, and seven daughters. 

Christopher Tancred, esq., who died in Aa- 



•VTHIXLEY. 369 

gust, 1754> unmarried, left this house and estate, at 
Whixley, for the maintenance of 12 decayed gentle- 
men; each of wjhom, receives 24l., or upwards, per 
^unum. A separate apartment is assigned to each of 
them ; and the whole company, if in health, dine to- 
gether every day. 

The Hall 

Is 27 feet square, very lofty, and ornamented with 
12 fluted pilasters, with corinthian capitals. 

Dining-room, is 30 feet, by 18. 

Drawing-room, 18 feet, by 12. 

TiJE Chapel is 27 feet, by 21 ; with a handsome 
pulpit, and reading-desk. Twenty pounds per annum 
is allowed, for a clergyman, to officiate here, at stated 
times. The furniture, in this house, is only such as is 
necessary for if s present inhabitants. There are a few 
pictures of the ancestors of the family ; and, also, a 
very remarkable one of Thomas Pouter, a swine-herd 
to sir Richard Tancred, knight banneret, with a date, 
1664. 

The Church 

l& a vicarage ; and, formerly^ belonged to the priox^ 
of Knaresbrough. 

Mr. Drake supposes this church was built with 
stones, brought from the ruins of Aldburghj as the 
marks of fire are very apparent, in some parts of the 
Imildintj;. It is^ ueverthelesjif very probabki that it 



370 KIEBY-HALL, <5f NUN-MONKTOJ^, 

was burnt, with many other churches in this neigh- 
bourhood, by the scots, in the year 1S19. 

The park-wall, and most of the houses, in this vil- 
lage, are built of pebbles ; said to have been taken 
from the remains of tlie roman road. 

Two miles from hence, is 

KIRB Y-HALL ; 

The pleasant seat of Henry Thompson, esq*. lu 
this elegant mansion, is a very valuable collection of 
paintings 5 many of them, by the most celebrated 
artists, ancient and modern. 

The mausoleum, in the church-yard, at Little- 
Ouseburn; and, the obelisk, at the place, called "The 
head of the river Ouse," were both erected by a gen- 
tleman of this family. 

Four miles distant from Kirby-hall, is 
NUN-MONKTON; 

The seat of William Tufnell, esq.. Here was a 
priory of benedictine nuns ; founded, iii Ihe reign of 
king Stephen, by William de Arches, and Ivetta, his 
wife : The situation, is near the conflux of the rivers 
Ouse and Nidd. It*s yearly revenues, at the dissolu- 
tion, were valued at 85i. 1 4s. 8d,: The site was grant- 
ed, in the 29th of Henry VIU., to John Nevile, lor<i 
Latimer. 



BENNINGBURGH, Sf RED-HOUSE. STL 

Prioresses of Nun-Monlton : 

1, Alice de Thorpe 

2, Margaret de Wylsthorpe . . . 1365. 

3, Isabel de Nevile IS/G. . 

4, Margaret Fairfax 

5r Margaret Cotum 

6, !Maude de Goldesburgli . . . • 142U 

7, Margaret 1514. 

On the opposite side of the river, is 

BENNINGBURGH; 

Was, probably, in ancient times, called Brenirt' 
Burgh ; i. e,, king's burgh : The welch, to this day, 
call a king brenin. Here the remans had a fortress ; 
and another, at Aldwark- ferry. It may have been the 
summer residence, for the kings of Northumberland ; 
as Eilinthope was, for the heir apparent.— 5eej3. 324. 

RED-HOUSE; 

Formerly aseat of theOughtreds. In the eighth 
year of Edward IIL, Thomas Oughtred had licence* 
from the king, to impark his woods, of Kirby-Monk- 
ton, upon the moor, and Scaggle thorp. Henry 
Oughtred, esq,, in the year 1506, granted, to Willi- 
am Fairfax, esq., and his heirs, free liberty to hunt, 
hawk, and fish, in the manor of Colton, in the county 
of the city of York; rendering, for all, one red rose, at 



37^ aED-HOUSE# 

midsummer. These estates continued to be possessed 
by this family, till about the year 1562; when Francis 
Slingsby, esq., purchased Red-house, and Scaggle^ 
thorp, of Robert Oughtred, €sq.. Sir Thomas Slingf- 
by is the present owner. The house is situated on the 
southern bank of the river Ouse, about seven miles 
north-west of York ; and, was built, by sir Henry 
Slingsby, in the reign of Charles I., except the cha* 
pel/ which was built by that gentleman's father. — 
From the terrace, is a fine view of York, it's cathedral, 
and neighbourhood: — ^Through the avenues, in the 
park, are seen Benningburgh, the seat of mr. Earle ; 
Nun-Monkton, the seat of William Tufnell, esq. 5 
AJlerton-park, and tower, the seat of lord Stourton* 

Om the south front of the house^ is inscribed : 

PRO TERMING VITiE, 
SIC N03 NON NOBIS. 

On the west front : 

PAULISPER ET RELUCEBIS: 
ET IPSE, M. R. 29, 1652. 

IFnder which, is the figure of a setting sua. 

At a small distance from the west front, is the 
place where, some ages since, stood the ancient man- 
sion. The site is 50 yards, by 25 ; encompassed by a 
wide and deep moat, according to the custom of the 
feudal ages J when every capital mansion was a fortress. 



RED-HOUSE. 373 

In the middle of this area, is a mutilated figure of a 
horse, large as life, cut in stone, by Andrexo Kame^ 
a dutch statuary ; in memory of a favorite racer, the 
property of sir Henry Slingsby, hart.. At a small 
distance, is the following inscription, on a stone, fix- 
ed in the ground : 

H£ DID WIN THE PLATE ON ACHOMBE-MOOR, 
THE KING BEING THERE, l633. 

In the room, called the " Star-chamber,'' are four 
shields of arms, beautifully stained on glass : First, 
Slingsby, and Mallory 5 second, Slingsby, and Percy ; 
third* Slingsby, and Vavasour 5 and fourth, Slingsby, 
and Bellasyse. In this room are, also, the figures of 
truth f just tee f temperance^ and fortitude^ support- 
ing a carved chimney-piece ; in the divisions of which, 
are symbolical representations of the five senses, well 
executed. 

But, what chiefly engages the attention of stran. 
gers, is 

The great Staircase^ 

Which is in the same state the worthy baronet, 
df Henry Slingsby, describes it, about the year 1642} 
as appears by a passage in his memoirs : 

** The staircase is above five feet, within the rails, 
" in width : The posts, eight inches square ; upon every 
*' post, a crest is set, of some one of ray especial 
21 



374 JRED-HOUSE. 

** friends, and my brothers-in-law 5 and, upon that 
** post that bears up the half-pace, that leads into the 
** painted chamber, there sits a blackamoor, (cast in 
** leeidf by Ajidrew Karne J with a candle-stick in each 
hand to set a candle in, to give light to the staircase." 



<i 



Crests- 

A wivern, sable, resting his foot on a fleur-dc« 
lis. — ^Pembroke. 

The earl of Pembroke, through the favor of 
James I., possessed, as a reward for his great skill in the 
ferts of hunting arid hawking, €i prodigious estate, not 
less, at that time, than <£ 18,000 a year. His manner 
of living was sumptuous, beyond example. His dog- 
kennels were superb ; and, his stables vied with palaces : 
But, his falconry was his chief pride, which he fur- 
nished, at a wonderful expense, with birds of game, 
and proper persons to manage, train, and exercise 
them. He was lord chamberlain, to Charles I.j but, 
at the commencement of the civil wars, joined the 
parliament, and was, by them, promoted to great 
honors. He died, 1649- 

A cock, gules, armed, or* — ^Vavasour. 

Sir Walter Vavasour, eminent for his loyal- 
ty to king Charles I.. He married Ursula, daughter of 
lord Fauconberg y and was, therefore, brother-in-law, 
to lady Slingsby. 

A talbot, argent.'— Stapylton. 

Brian Stapylton, esq., marriedFrances, sister 
to sir Henry Slingsby. 



RED-HOUSE, '375 

An otter, proper— Watterton. 

Thomas Watterton, esq., married Alice, sis- 
ter to sir Henry Slingsby. 

A cock, or — IngraiM. 

Thomas Ingram, esq., eldest son of sir Arthur 
Ingram, of Temple-Newsome, married a sister to lady 
Slingsby. 

An eagle, azure, wings expanded.— -Bet hell. 

Sir Walter Bet hell, knt., married Mary, 
lister to sir Henry Slingsby, bart.. Colonel Bethell, 
was a brave and gallant officer, in the service of the 
parliament. ♦ 

A satyr. — Metcalf. 

Sir Thomas Metcalf, knt., married Eli zabetbj^ 
sister to sir Henry Slingsby. 

A phoenix, argent — Fenwick. 

Sir John Fenwick, married Catherine, sister to 
sir Henry Slingsby; whose son, colonel John Fen* 
wick, was slain at Marston-moor, l644. 

A stag's head, armed, or. — Dom. Fauconber€. 

Thomas Bellasyse, the first viscount Faucon- 
berg, was lady Slingsby's father. His younger son, 
John, being created lord Bellasyse, of Worlabye, in 
the county of Lincoln, distinguished himself in the 
civil wars of Charles I.; for whom, he raised six regi- 
ments of horse and foot, was one of the chief corn- 
manders at the battles of Edge-hill, Newberry, and 
Naseby, and, at the sieges of Reading and Bristol; 
was governor of York ; and commander, in chief, of 
2 I 2 



376 RED-HOUSE. 

all the forces in Yorkshire 3 lieutenant-general of the 
counties of Lincoln, Nottingham, Derby, and Rut- 
land, and governor of Newark. 

A wivern, gules — Com. Cumberland. 
Henry Clifford, the fifth and last earl of Cum- 
berland, was a zealous man, in the royal cause, against 
the parliament. He died at York, 164S. 
An owl, argent — Savile. 
Sir William Savile, a great sufferer for the 
cause of Charles I.. He fortified and garrisoned his 
house, atThornhill, which was taken, and demolished, 
by the parliament forces. He married Anne, daugh- 
ter of Thomas, lord Coventry, lord keeper of the 
great seal ; a lady, remarkable for her zeal and attach- 
ment to the royal cause. Sir William died, 1643. 
A lion, azure — Com.'Northumberland. 
Algernon Percy, tenth earl of Northumberland, 
installed knight of the garter, in 1635, was the king's 
chief minister, and high-admiral. When the army 
had subdued the king, he had the charge of the king's 
children. This earl was also high constable, at 
the coronation of Charles II.: He died at Petworth, 
1668. 

A lion's head, erased, sable — Dom. Fairfax. 
Lord Fedinando Fairfax, one of the most 
able and experienced of the parliament generals 5 ho- 
nored and respected, by all parties. 

A lion, vert, sejant — Slingsby. 
This was, probably, the crest of sir Charks SHuga- 



RED-HOUSE. 377 

by, knt.; a relation of sir Henry's, who was slain at 
Marston-moor. 

"With this Inscription : 

Melandre Profugta 
Si nuUis tenebris laborioso 
Cessant pectora palidaeque curaB 
Tam nusquara tepedo annuunt sopori 
O Di, quis super est locus quieti. 

In the year 1633, the king, being at York, honored 
this house with a visit , and condescended to sleep 
^here, for one night. The bed-stead, on which the roy- 
al guest reposed, is still preserved, with the same blue 
silk damask hangings, and furniture j almost covered 
with tufted fringe, of silk asd gold. 

On the 24th of August, 1665, the duke of York^ 
(afterwards king James II.,) being then at York, ho- 
nored sir Thomas Slingsby, bart., with his, and his 
duchess's company, at Red-house ; where they were 
pleased to stop, and take a dinner; as appears, by a 
passage, in sir Thomas's memorandums, about that 
time. 

The Chapel; 

A very neat building, paved with black and white 
marble. The seats, and ;>ulpit, are oak, embellished 
with gothic ornaments. In the east window, above the 
communion-table> are the following paintings, on 
glass: 

2 I 3 



378 BATTLE OF MARSTON-MOOR. 

The arms of Thomas Morton, bishop of Litchfield ; 
who consecrated this chapel. The arms of the \ini- 
versities, of Oxford and Cambridge. 

In the centre of the window, are the Slingsbys* 
arms j with 15 quarterings. 

On the south side of the chapel, are two windows: 
In one, are the heads of five of the apostles ; and, in 
the other, the figures oifaitht chariti/, and justice; 
also, the arms of the king of England, and the prince 
of Wales. 

The neighbouring church, of Moor-Monkton, is 
a rectory j of which, the lord chancellor is patron. 
The steeple was built, and the bell, which weighs 
upwards of nine hundred- weight, was given, by sir 
Henry Slingsby, bart,, about the year 1638. 

Returking from Red-house, to the post-road, 
leading from Green-Hammerton, to York, observe, 
at the distance of two miles before you, a rising ground, 
marked with several plumps of trees ^ and, famous for 
having been the scene of contention, betwixt two nu- 
merous armies, in that memorable action, called 

C|)e Mttlt 

Which was fought, on the 2d of July, 1644, be- 



BATTLE OF MARSTON-MOOR. 37^ 

tween the forces of Charles I., and those of the par- 
liament. The latter were drawn up, c^ the side of 
the hill, called Marston-field, then covered with rye; 
extending their front, from Marston, to Tockwith,* 
a distance of three miles : Their right wing, was com- 
manded by sir Thomas Fairfax -, the left, by colonel 
Cromwell 5 the main body, by lord Fairfax. The 
royal army were drawn up, in the plain, below Mar- 
ston-field : Their right wing, commanded by prince 
Rupert 5 the left, by the marquis of Newcastle 3 the 
main body, by general lord Goring, sir Charles Lucas, 
and general Porter. The signal, in the king's army, 
was to be without either band, or scarf: That of the 
parliament's, a v/hite paper, or handkerchief, in their 
hats.t A cannon-shot, from the parliament's army, 
killed a son of sir Gilbert Haughton.J 

The army moving down the hill, in brigades of 800 
1000, or 1200 men, descended into the plain; and, ad- 
vancing towards the royalists, suddenly made a halt; 
when an awful silence ensued, both armies expecting 
who should begin the charge, there being a ditch, and 
a bank betwixt them. — The parliament's forces, not- 
withstanding the disadvantage, made their way over 
the ditch, and began the attack. Pnnce Rupert, with 
the left wing, broke, like a storm of irresistible fur}^ 
into the right wing of the scots, led by sir Thomaa 

• Vicar's Parliamentary Chronicle* t Ibid. 
} Sir Henry SUugsby 3 xncuioirs. 



fi80 BATTLE OF MARSTON-MOOR^ 

Fairfax, routed and pursued them quite out of the 
field; Sir Thomas, with a regiment of lances, and 
about 500 of his own horse, made a stand, foi;some 
lime; but, at length, they were put into confusion^ 
himself wounded, and his brother killed: W hile this 
was doing, on the left of the king s army, the lord 
Goring, with the main body, charged the parliament'* 
foot : One brigade, commanded by major general Por- 
ter, being mostly pike-men, not regarding the fire of 
their opponants, charged in a close and firm body ; and, 
overturning all that came in their way, and breaking 
into the middle of the parliament's troops, filled all 
with terror, and confusion ; insomuch, that the three 
generals, thinking all had been lost, fled, and quitted 
the field. But matters went not so well with the right 
wing of the king's army; for, Cromwell* charged the 
earl of Newcastle, with a powerful body of horse; 
and, though the earl, and those about him, did what 
men could do, yet there was no withstanding Crom- 
well's horse; but, like prince Rupert's, they bore 
down all before them if The earl was routed, and 
driven quiie out of the field. Sir Thomas Fairfax ral- 
lying his dispersed troops, they fell all together, upon 
the foot, in the centre. General lord Goring, behaved 
like a soldier; but, being fcrsaken by his horse, and 

* Crpmwell advanced to the charge, from tlie cow*s warren, at Bii» 
ton-breame, where he v/as poste(J^ witli five bodies of horse. 

t Memoirs of a cav^er. / 



BATTLE OF MARSTON-MOOR. 381 

hemmed in, on all sides, he was totally routed. An 
hour after this, the prince, returning too late to recover 
his friends, was obliged, with the rest, to quit the 
field, to the conquerors ; and retire, towards York. It 
being late in the evening, when they arrived atMickle- 
gate-bar, caused a scene of confusion, beyond descrip- 
tion; none being suffered to enter, but those of the 
garrison : — ^This caution, made the admittance tedious, 
and slow; while many of the soldiers, fainting under 
wounds, fatigue, and anxiety, filled the air with 
sounds of distress.* The engagement lasted near four 
hours ; commencing, at about seven o'clock, and end- 
ing, near eleven. 

The parliamentarians remaining on the field, the 
©arl of Manchester rode through the ranks, thanking 
the troops for their gallant behaviour; the success of 
which, he exhorted them to ascribe to the Lord of 
hosts ; told them, he was sorry it was not possible, at 
that late hour, to administer to their many necessities 5 
but that, at day-break, every needful attention 
should be paid, both to friends and enemies: The 
dawa approaching, discovered the wide extended 
heath, scattered all over with the bodies of the slain. 

Sir Charles Lucas, being a prisoner, was de- 
sired to point out such bodies, amongst the slain, as 
he wished to have selected, for private interment. 
In performing this mournful office, sir Charles only 

* Six Henry Slingsby's niem»iy§. 



S8^ BATTLE OF M ARSTON-MOOR. 

singled out the body of one gentleman, who had a 
bracelet, of hair, about his wrist, desiring the brace- 
let might be takee off j for, that he knew an honora- 
ble lady, who would thankfully receive it.* 

The countrymen were commanded to bury the 
dead; who gave out, that they interred 4150 j two 
thirds of whom, were gentlemen, and persons of qua- 

iity.t 

The graves are yet to be seen, near Witstrop-wood* 

The principal persons, slain on the kings part, 
were— sir William Wentworth, sir Francis Dapres, 
sir William Lampton, sir Charles Slingsby, knt., bu- 
ried in York-minster; colonelJohn Fenwick, could 
not be found; sir Marmaduke Luddon, sir Thomas 
Metham,J sir Richard Gledhiil, sir Richard Graham, 
and above 4000 others. 

The chief of the prisoners, were— general sir 
Charles Lucas, general Porter, general Tilliard, lord 
Garing's son, and several more field officers, and 
others, to the amount of 1500. 

•* Vicars. 

t Sir Richard Oraham, of Norton-Conyers, who was a very active oft 
ficer, on the side of royalty, after having received 26 wounds, in this 
battle, fled, when ail was lost, towards his ow» house, which he reach- 
ed that night; and expired, about an hour after his arrival. 

J Sir Thomas Metham, was captain of the Yorkshire gentlemen, who 
served as volunteers, iu this battle— Fuller says, "This battle was our 
** english pharsalian fight; or rather, tlie fatal battU of Caunse^ to the 
<* loyal cavaliers." 



BATTLE OF MARSTOK-MOOR. 383 

The principal persons, slain on the side of the par- 
liament, were — major Fairfax, Charles Fairfax, bro- 
ther to sir Thomas Fairfax, who was buried at Mar- 
ston, aged 23; captain Micklethwait, captain Pugh, 
and about 300 subalterns, and privates. 

Wounded — captain Walton, and about 20 others, 
A curious circumstance, which seems to be well at- 
tested, relative to this engagement, is said to have 
happened, within these few years : — On cutting down 
the wood, belonging to lord Petre^ on one side of 
Marston-moor, the sawyers found many bullets in the 
hearts of the trees. 

Six miles farther, bring-s you to the city of York; 
for the history of which, see Dt^akes Antiquities of 
York ;*^The Yorkshire Gazetteer ; or. The York 
Guide-^di small pamphlet, lately published. 




584 BRANDEITH-CRAGGS. 



STAGE XL- 

Harrogate^ to Blubber-houses. Brandrith* 

craggs, — Bolton-abbey. — Skipton. 

BLUBBER-HOUSES; 

HAMLET, about mid- way betwixt Harrogate, 
and Skipton J which evidently takes it's name from the 
blue berry, i. e., whor tie-berry j a fruit, with which 
the moors hereabouts abound. 

A mile from this village, on the right of the road, 
leading from thence to Skipton, i« 

BRANDRITH*.CRAGGS ; 

A range of rocks, situate on the edge of a precipice, 
overlooking a deep and extensive vale, called " Kex- 
gill." t Here is a rocking-stone, whose weight is proba- 
bly 20 tons J and yet, is easily moved, with one hand: 

• Brandy (saxon) a piece of burning wood. 

t Probably a corruption of kirkt an old word, for a consecrated plsce • 
dad ^Ui a deep valley, with a snali brook at the bottom. 



BR ANDRITH*C RAGGS» 385 

On th« summit of one of the highest rocks, is a ba- 
so*!,* three feet six inches in diameter, and two 
feet in depth : Here are, also, several other basons» 
of smaller di mentions* If we suppose these rocks to 
have been oace shaded with oaks, this place would then 
exactly answer the description, given of the sacred 
groves, and rock altars, of the most ancient idolaters- 
Ma. Brayant tells us, " that the egyptians look- 
** cd upon fragments of rocks, with a degree of vene* 
** ration j and, some of them they kept, as they found 
•* them, with, perhaps, only an hieroglyphic, others, 
** they shaped with tools, and formed into various de- 
•* vices :" Again, he says, " it was usual, with much 
•* labor, to place one vast stone upon another, for a 
** religious memorial. The stones thus placed, they 
*• oftentimes poized so equally, that they were affected 
*' with the least external force ; nay, a breath of wind 
** would sometimes make them vibrate." 

" Mark yon altar 1 

•* Those mighty piles of fnagio>pIanted rock, 

" Thus ranged, ia mystic order : Mark the place* 

'* Where, but, at times of solemn festival, 

" The druid leads his train. There dwells the seer— 

^* In yonder «haggy cave; on which« the moon 

** Kovr sheds a side-long gleam ; his brotherhood 

** Possess the neighbouring cliflfs : 

** Mine eyes descry a distant range of caves, 

" Delv'd in tlie ridges of the craggy steep.'* 

♦ Rock4/atcmt, it has been conjectured, were cut for the purpose of 
preserving dew, or rain, as it descended from the heavens ; which was 
used, by the druids, in their ablutions and sprinklings, performed with 
vsrttin and mbletoe.— Fwfc BorUut's hist, of CorTtwaU, 

2 K 



386 BOLTON-PRIORY* 

Proceeding towards Skipton, six miles, youar* 
rive at Bolton-bridge : On the right, are the ruins of 

BOLTON ^PRIORY; 

SiTUArED on the southern bank of the river 
Wharfe, The church was built in the form of a cross y 
the steeple being in the middle: Tbedoisters^ confes- 
sor's house, dormitory, &c., were upon the south side* 
On the west side of the cloisters, was a square court : 
Over one of the remaining door- ways, is carved, ona* 
verge : 

IN THE YEAR OF OUR LORD, MCCCCXX.j R. -^* 
BEGAN THIS FOUNDATION. 

On the north side of the choir, the family of Clap- 
ham had a vault, where their dead were deposited. 

The steeple, at the wrest end, is a late erection? 
and covers the old front; where service is now per- 
formed. There are many coats armorial, about the 
edifice; amongst which, are those of Clifford, Nevile, 
Percy, &c.* 

This priory was founded, in the year 1 Igo, for ca- 
nons regular, of the order of saint Austin, by Willi- 
am Meschines, and Cecilia de Romeli, his wife, ba- 
roness of Skipton; and, sister to the noble youth 
who lost his life, in crossing a place, called The Stride, 

'» Kobert Moob* 



BOLTON-PRIORY. 



387 



about a mile from hence, which is the cleft of a rock, 
in the bed of a river; and, through which, the river, 
in summer time, entirely passes : It was in stepping 
over this gulph, with a led greyhound, the animal 
not making it's effort in the passage, at the same time 
with it's master, checked the step of the unhappy 
youth, and precipitated him into the torrent. In 
Bolton-hall, was formerly a picture of this young 
gentleman, with the greyhound standing near him. 

This priory was dissolved, the 1 1th of June, 1540 ; 
and, in 1543, was granted to Henry Clifford, earl of 
Cumberland; in which family it remained, till 1635 5 
when Elizabeth, the daughter and sole heiress of 
Henry, the last earl of Cumberland, marrying Rich- 
ard, the first earl of Burlington, carried the demesnes 
' into that family ; whose daughter, Charlotte, sole 
heiress, married, in 1748, the duke of Devonshire, 
father of the present duke. 

Here remained in charge, in the year 1553, the 
following pensions, to the last monks of this priory. 



To Christopher Leeds 
To William Wytkes 
To Thomas Casteley ' 
To Thomas Pickering 
To William Maltham 
To John Cromoke . 
To Edward Hill . . 
To John Bolton . . 









£ 


. s. 


d. 








. . 6 : 


13 : 


4 








. . 6 : 


: 











. . 6 : 


13 : 


4 








. 5 : 


6 : 


8 








. 5 : 


6 : 


8 








. 5 : 


6 : 


8 








. 5 : 


6 : 


8 








. 5 : 


6 : 


8 



2 K 2 



S88 SKIPTON. 



To George Richmond . . • . . 5 ; 6 
To Robert Knaresburgh ..,.5:6 
To Robert Beurdeux 4:0 







Arms.'^Gules, a cross patonce, vaire, argent, and 
azure. 

Six miles from Bolton-bridge, is 

SKIPTON, 

In the west-riding of Yorkshire, and wapentake of 
Staincliffe. This town is called the capital of Cra- 
ven ;* a district, said to contain the following towns 
and villages: Keighley, Kildwick, Gargrave, Long- 
Preston, Settle, Clapham, Ingleton, Starbotton, Ket- 
tlewell, Craven-cross, Bolton-abbey, Addingham, 
Ilkley, andOtley; including a circuit of near 100 
miles, remarkable for it*s lofty mountains, rich Tal- 
lies, and luxuriant pastures. 

Before the conquest, Elsi was lord of Sceaptone, 
(q. d., Sheep'towTif) and Carltone; where he had 18 
carucates of land. Earl Edwin had, also, four caru- 
cates here, at the same time. 

Atter the conquest, Gamel and Elric held it, of 
Ilbert de Laci ; who had here, 20th of William I., 
nine villeins, and three borders. Here were foui' 

* Krave, (danish) the cape of a cloalc; when applied to situation, « 
]^ghplace« as graven, a mouatMBOUscouatr/. KravUr, to climb up* 



s'KiPTON. 889 

acres of meadow 5 and a wood, six furlongs in length, 
and five in breadth. 

' ■ The church, and ancient castle, were probably both 
built by Robert deRomeli, lord of the honor of Skip- 
ton: By failure of issue-male, this honor fell to Wil- 
liam Fitz-Duncan, earl of Murra}', who married Ro- 
iTielis daughter 5 and, it p&ssed, with their daughter, 
io WiHiaih' le Gross. ' In the reign of Richard I., it 
belonged to Aveline, daughter of William de Forti- 
bus, who married Edmund, earl of Lancaster; but, 
on the forfeiture of it, by their son Thomas, for trea* 
son, against Edward IL, it came to the crown : And, 
though the Gliiford family were amongst the adhe- 
rents of Thomas, earl of Lancaster; yet, intheyeiar 
1330, Edward III., by an act of parliament, parllmi- 
ed all who had been concerned in that rebellion ; %nd 
granted this castle and lordship, to Robi^rt, the sixth 
lord Clifford, brOthtfr to Roger, the fifth lofd^ wl^ 
' was belieaded,' at Yoi'lr,4ri^l'$^i; Gritit\«!^, for so 
singular an act of clemency,: seems ^ ha^ firmly at- 
tached that renowned family, ever after, to the royal 
cause ; and, may then have occasioned the choice of 
their motto — DesormdU ; cf.'d., Frbin hencefm^th, 

Robert, the seventh lord Clifford, succeeded his 
father, and served in the battles of Cressy, and 
Poitiers ; obit, lSQ-2, Roger, the eighth lord, was one 
of the wardens of the marches towards Scotland ; obit, 
1389' Thomas, the ninth lord, was expert in mili- 
tary affairs j and'falnaus, for his exercise in deeds of 
^ K 3 



390 SKIPTON. 

arms 3 but died before he was 30, leaving his son, John, 
the 10th lord; who, like his father, was highly famed 
for military knowledge. He attended Henry V., into 
France; and was slain, at the seige of Meaux, in 
1422. Thomas, the 1 1 th lord, was slain on the king's 
part, in the first battle of saint Alban's, 1455. John, 
the 12th lord, was a commander, at the battle of Wake- 
field, in 1460; where, flushed with victory, and fired 
with revenge, he was hurried on to the perpetration 
of a deed, that casta shade over all his former honors : 
—The fate of the young earl of Rutland, only 12 
years of age, who fell that day, by his hands, will 
ever be remembered, as an event that marks the fero- 
cious manners of those times. Three months after the 
lilQe of Wakefield, that nobleman was himself slain, 
by an arrow, at the battle of Towton, aged 26. Hen- 
ry, the IStb lord, on account of the hatred the house 
of Yoric bore to his family, was concealed amongst 
the mdfantains of Cumberland, in the disguise of a 
shepherd^ from seven years old, till he arrived at bis 
S2d year ; when, in the first parliament of Henry VIL, 
he was restored, in blood and honor, to all his baro- 
nies, lands, and castles^ This nobleman was a prin- 
cipal commander in the great victory, gained at Flood- 
den. 

*' From Penigent, to Pcndle-hill— 
" From Lmton, to Long-Addingham; 

<* And all, that Craven coasts did till, 
*» Tbey with the lusty Clifford camQ." 

He died, in 1523. 



SKIPTOX. 391 

Henry, the 14th lord, was created earl of Cumber- 
land, in 1525 ; who, when the rebellion broke out, in 
the year 1537, wrote to the king, informing his majesty, 
** that, though deserted by the neighbouring gentr}', 
and above 500 others, he was still determined to defend 
his castle of Skipton, against the rebel. Ask, and his 
•whole army.'* Queen Elizabeth bestowed the order of 
the garter on his grandson, George, who signalized 
himself, by the active part he took in the war with 
Spain.* This earl dying, without male-issue, the ho- 
nor of Skipton, with other great estates, devolved to 
his daughter Anne, who was married to Richard Sack- 
ville, earl of Dorset; by whom, she had Thomas, lord 
Buckhurst, who died young ; and two daughters, Mar- 
garet and Isabella. 

In the civil wars of Charles I., this town and castle 
bad a considerable share, being a garrison for the king, 
commanded by sir John Mallory, of Studley. A- 
mong»t the various actions that took place here, at 
that time, the following seems the most remarkable : 

In the month of February, 1645, a party of about 
150 horse, marched out from this garrison, under the 
command of captain Hughes; and came suddenly 

• At an audience, after «nc of his expeditions, the queen, perhaps 
designedly, dropped one of her gloves; his lordship took it up, and pre- 
sented it to her; she graciously desired him to keep it, as a mark of 
her esteem: The earl adorned it with diamonds, and wore it in the 
frpnt of his high-crowned hat, on days of tournaments. This is express* 
^ ia a fine priat of him, by RQiert White, 



302 SICIPTOK. 

u]ibn the enemy's quarters, at Keighley, surprised the 
guards, got into the town, and took near 100 prisoners, 
- 60 horse, and other booty* , » > * 

Colonel Lambert happened to be quartered in 
the neighbourhood j and, hearing of the alarm, came 
with all speed, attacked the royalists, recovered all 
the parliamentary prisoners, and most of the booty, 
the enemy had taken 5 killed'l^ 6n the i&^t," and took 
about 20 prisoners ; wounded and took caplaih Hugh- 
es, killed his lieutenant, and pursued the rest to the 
gates of Skipton- castle. 

* On Lambert's side, were lost, in this servie^j' cap- 
tain Salmon, one of his best officer's, and eight dra- 
goons. ' ' 

On the SOth of December, 1645, this castle was sttr- 
rendered, to the forces of the parliament; having held 
out longer than any other, in the north of England. 
The garrison were permitted to retain their arms; 
and, to march either to Newark, Oxford, or Hereford.* 

Amongst the rest of the inhabitants of this town, 
who suffered* for their attachment to the royal cause, 
we find some, who were obliged to compound for their 
estates. 

* Journals of the house of commons, April 30, 1646. Resolved, 
That Skipion-castle, in the county of York, being a castle belonging to 
the earl of Pembroke ; that it be recommended from this house, and 
referred to the said earl, to place a considerable number of his own 
servants, in the said castle; to be kept and maintained there, at the 
proper cost and charges of the said earl ; and, that the said castle be 
kept only qs a place for habitation, and aot as a garrison. 



SKIPTON. 




3S 




£. 


s. 


d. 


Henry Currer, gent. , . 


. . 158 : 


17 : 





Henry Gudgeon, gent. . 


. . 100 • 


: 





Robert Gudgeon, gent. 


• . 90 : 


: 





Samuel Swyre .... 


. . 41 : 


10 : 





William Bowcock . . . 


. . 32 : 


13 : 


4 


William Gudgeon . . . 


. . 30 : 


: 






The laUy Anne Clifford, having lost her second hus- 
band, the earl of Pembroke, who died in the year 
1649, came down into the country, where she remain- 
ed till her death, in 1675, in great honor, and pros- 
perity, sometimes in Yorkshire — sometimes in West- 
moreland, to the great benefit of both counties. At 
her coming, she found five of her castles, and the 
tower of Barden, thrown down, and demolished. The 
castle of Skipton was immediately repaired, as ap- 
pears by an inscription, over the door, at the west cn4 
of the building. 

When an insolent minister would force a person of 
his choosing, into one of her boroughs, she sent him 
the following animated answer : 

** I have been bullied by an usurpevy'-^l have been 
neglected by a court ; hut, J vill not be dictated tOf 
by a subject. Your man shdn't stand, 

Anne Dorset y Pembroke, and Montgomery ^^ 

John Tufton, the second earl of Thanet, hav- 
ing married Margaret, daughter of the earl of Dorset, 
by lady Anne Clifford, brought this castle and lordship 



394 SKIPTON* 

into that family. The battlements, over the gateway, 
are formed of large letters, <;omposing the motto of 
the Cliffords. 

In a square court, within the castle, stands a very 
aged yew-tree , whose spreading branches cast a dark 
and solemn shade, over the whole place. It is to be 
remembered, that the yevv-tree was held in great ve- 
neration, at Halifax, and the neighbouring towns, 
in days of yore; perhaps, the tree iii qu^tion, may 
derive it*s peculiarity of situation, from that circum- 
stance — Be that as it may, we cannot but observe the 
similarity of situation of this venerable yew, to the 
laurel, in one of the courts of the palace of Latintis, 
as related by Virgil; 

"Just in the centre of the most retir*4 
" And secret court, an holy laurel stood ', 
*' For many years, religiously preserv'd." 

The bottom of the stem, is encompassed by a square 
base of stone-work, charged with shields of arms: 
From hence, the passages wind round the towers, 
to the different apartments; some of which, are hung 
with fine ancient tapestry. 

' The hall is well constructed, having two fire- 
places, and seems to have been calculated for hospita- 
lity r The whole edifice, at present, appears rather 
like a place designed for a comfortable dwelling, than 
a fortification. 



SKi;P:TON. : 395 

The Church 

Is a vicarage, dedicated to the Holy-Trinity; of 
"Which, the dean and -canons of Christ-church, are 
patrons. Here are some monuments, inscribed to the 
memory of the Cliffords : . • 

Henry Clifford, first earl of Cumberland j 
obit, 1542.-^Henry, second earl; obit, 1570. — George, 
third earl, 1605. 

Rosamond, the fair and beautiful mistress of 
Henry IL, was the daughter of Walter, the firsilord 
Clifford, who died in 1215; more than 100 years be- 
fore the family became possessed of this lordship. 

Here is a good market, on Saturdays; and, the 
following falirs, via, March 23; Palm-Sanday erej 
Easter-eve, the fii'st, second, and third Tuesdays af* 
ter Easter; Whitsun-eve; August 5; November 20j 
21 r and 2^; besides the fortnight fairs, for sheep, 
all the year round ; at each of which, some hundreds 
of those animals are sold; the town still retaining, in 
a remarkable degree, that branch of trade, for which 
it was famous many ages ago. 

For the natural curiosities of Craven, see **Hut' 
ton's Tour to the Cavesj" and ^^Hurtlefs description of 
Malham, and ifs environs.*^ 



396 FARNLEY* 



STAGE XIL. 

Harrogate, to Farnley.^-^NewhalL — Otleyj'^ 
Ilkley. — Denton.^^ Weston^ 

BOUT nine miles west of Harrogate, is 

FARNLEY, 

The seat of Walter Fawkes, esq.. The house, 
which hath lately been rebuilt, is pleasantly situated 
on an eminence, above the river Wharfe : The gardens, 
shrubberies, and plantations, are well laid out, and 
very extensive. 

The Hall 

Is an elegant and handsome room, 37 feet, by 24; 
with two recesses. The walls and ceiling, ornamented 
with paintings and relievos, in the antique taste. 

Breakfast-room, 

Ornamented with 18 large drawings, of a varie- 
ty of romantic scenes, in Switzerland, and Italy ; 
admirably wdl executed, by Warwick^ and SmM. 



FARNLEY. 397 

Dining-room ; 

Thirty-six feet, by 24, and 18 high; painted 
hy Tai/lor, except the medallions, which are executed, 
in a most masterly manner, by Le Brun. The ceiling 
is supported by four elegant fluted columns, with rich 
Corinthian capitals. Chimne3^-piece, of italian mar- 
ble, and excellent workmanship, which does honor to 
the artist, mr. Fisher, of York. 

m Drawing-room ; 

Thirty-three heU by 22, and 17 high} hung 
with the new-invented flock paper; and ornamented, 
with the following pictures : Over the fire-place, a 
portrait of lord Cottington, by Cornelius Jansen; 
below, is a small landscape, by Cuyp : On the left of 
the fire-place, a magdalen, by Giddo, a celebrated 
picture, that once belonged to the family of ]Montmo- 
renci, in France \ below, is a sea-piece, representing 
a>calm, at sun-set; by J. W. Turnery esq., JR. A,: On 
the right of the fire-place, a madona, by Carlo Dolci; 
below, a view of three first-rate men of war, passing 
the straits ; by Turner : Opposite the painted window, 
a full-length of the duchess of Aremberg, and her in- 
fant son, by Vandyke; — this picture is in the highest 
preservation ; and, a capital specimen of that artist's 
abilities : On the left, is a group of cattle, hy Adrian 
Vandervelde : On the right, Hermaphroditus, re- 
clined on a mattress, by Carracci : Over the left-hand 
2 L 



398 FARNLEY. 

door, a portrait of James L, (master unknown): Over 
the right-hand door, a sea-piece, by moonlight; Mo^ 
nme : Over the library door, dead game, by Weenlx : 
On the left, Susanna, and elders, by GKercim : On 
the right, ships, in a gale of wind, by Backhuj/soK 

A most elegant Window, 

of 

^taimo Slum 

In the first square of which, are the initials of John 
Hawkesworth, whoserved under Richard Pons, anor- 
man lord, at the battle of Hastings; whose second 
son, Walter Pons, marrying the heiress of the lord- 
ship and castle of Clifford, in Herefordshire, became 
the first lord Clifford.* 

On the opposite side, are the initials of William 
Hawkesworth; with a date, 1220: Below, are beau- 
tifuUy displayed, the principal quarterings, and in- 
termarriages of the families of Hawkesworth, and 
Fawkes, with the following inscription : 

• Taken from a pedigree of the family of Hawkeswortli, attested bjr 
Uic king, at anns, 1642. 



FARNLEY. 



399 



FRANCIS yAWKES, ^S^^ 
ESQ., ^ 

OF FARNLEY, 
DIED, 
AND BEQUEATHED THIS HOUSE, 
WITH 
THE BULK QF HIS PROPERTY, 
'^\S^ TO WALTER HAWKESWORTH, 
OF 
HAWKESWORTH, ESQ. » 
1 WHO, IN OBEDIENCE TO HIS WILL, 
TOOK 
THE ARMS AND NAME OF FAWKES *. 
HIS SON, 
WALTER FAWKES, ESQ., 
t REMOVED MOST 

OF THE ABOVE STAINED GLASS, 



FROM 
.TH» ANCIENT FAMILY SEAT, , 



AT HAWKESWORTH, 
A. D. 1807. 



Library : 

Twenty-four feet, by 22, and 17 high, A 
choice collection of books ; and, a great variety of 
well'executed prints, by Gilpin, Varlci/, Turner, <^c.. 

Here is one of those extraordinary mandates, sent 
tinder the privy-seal of king Charles I., requesting 
the loan of a certain sum of money : It is directed to 
3 L 2 



400 NEWHALL. 

Thomas Fawkes, esq.; dated, April 11 th, l6^6. 
Rap IN njives a list of the names of a number of 
persons, who were sent to prison, for refusing to com- 
ply with the royal request. 

About two miles from Farnley, is 
NEWHALL; 

The seat of Thomas Clifton, esq., barrister at law. 
This estate was the property of the Fawkes's, so early 
as the time of king Edward J.. It afterwards became 
the seat of Edward Kcighley, esq.; who married Anne, 
sole daughter of William Goldesburgh, of Goldes- 
burgh; and had issue, Leonard Keighleyj who sold 
this property tomr. Proctor, a gentleman of the law, 
about the year 15895 of whom, it was probably pur- 
chased, by Edward Fairfax, esq., the celebrated poet, 
who flourished in the reigns of Elizabeth, and James 
I.. His merits were so great, that Waller professed to 
have learnt, from him, the art of versification : His eld- 
est brother, was sir Thomas Fairfax, baron of Cameron ; 
who signalized himself, on many occasions, in the wars 
in Germany, against the house of Austria. Sir Charles, 
his younger brother, was slain at the siege of Ostend. 
While his brothers were thus honorably employed a- 
broad, an invincible modesty, and love of a retired 
life, made him prefer the shady groves, and natural 
cascades of Denton, and the forest of Knaresbrough, 
before all the diversions of court, or camp. His sop* 



OTLEV. 401 

were bred scholars; but, a martial humor running in 
their veins, three of them were slain in the wars, be- 
yond sea; two, in defence of Frankendale, and, the 
other, at Montauban, in France* He died, at New* 
hall, about the year 1632. 

OTLEY: 

[Oatter/ ; i. e., Oat-Jield.'\ A place, perhaps, once 
famous for the cultivation of oats; and, where great 
quantities of that sort of grain, continue to be dis* 
posed of, weekly. This manor was given, by king 
Athelstan, to the see of York, in whose jurisdiction 
it still remains ; and here, the bishop had formerly a 
palace ; the remains of which, at the north end of the 
town, have been lately removed. It appears, the 
episcopal court exercised the power of executions ; the 
place, called Galloxi;'hUly being in the vicinity of the 
town. 

The grammar-school, here, was founded by 
Thomas Cave, in the year l6l 1 ; who made the feoffees 
a body corporate. Their seal is a rod, on one side, 
and a palm-branch, on the other; motto, — deuh 
PAVE, TOMO CAVE— Fe^r Gody and mind thy book. 
The latter part of the latin, is a pun, upon the found- 
er's name. 

Here is a market, on Fridays; and fairs, on August 
1, and August 15. 

The Church 

Is a neat and spacious building, dedicated to AH* 
i2 L 3 



402 ilkleyJ 

saints: The living is in the gift of the lord chancellor* 
Here are several ancient monuments; and, a very 
great many more, of modern date ; amongst the former, 
we observe those belonging the families of Fairfax, 
Fawkes, Yavasour, Palmes, and Pulleyn. The first 
vicar that occurs, for Otley, is Galdfrid Bridlington, 
1267. 

At the end of the town, going to Leeds, is a hill, 
called The Chevin ; which rises, on the right-hand, 
high over the road; and, affords one of the most 
beautiful prospects, that is any where to be seen, or 
imagination can form an idea of— A wide and rich 
vale, extending many miles ; the river Wharfe mean- 
dering through it, and shewing itself, in a broad 
strieam, in various and long reaches— The town of 
Otley — Sir Henry Ibbetso^'s, mr. Vavasour^s, 
MRl Fawkes's, MR. Clifton*s, and other scats, are 
dispersed in it — The hedge-rows are ornamented with 
tree$— The enclosures are corn fields, or verdant mea- 
dows—The dark mountains, about Skipton, are seen 
behind — Opposite, and towards the right, the hills 
about Knaresbrough and Harrogate, shew their lofty 
summits. 

Six miles from Otley, is 
ILKLEY; 

The OUcana of the romans; which was rebuilt, in 
Sever us*s time, by Virus Lupus, lieutenant and pro- 



ILKLEY. - 403 

praetor, in Britain ; as appears by the following inscrip- 
tion, dug up near the church : i ♦• 

IM SEVERVS 
A VG. .E|^. >NT ONI,N yS . ^ ^ , ^ 
C^S. DESTINATVS 
RESTITVERVNT^ GVkAN- 

TE. VIRIO. LVPO LBG. E- 

'■"'■■■• ;^ . • * 1 * ■'■.-. I , ' i 

ORVM PI^.. PR*. 4. ^ 

The following altar, dugup here,' also shell's that' 
the second cohort of the Lingones was stationed here, 
by it's inscription, made, by their praefect, in honor 
of Verbeia, the goddess or nymph of the liver Wharfo^- 

.VIRBBIJE . 
.:^.j.^^ SACRVM 
f.A,...rjCLODlVS 

TRONTO 

PR^F. COH. 

IIvLlNGON. 

For Gildas writes, that, in that age, "rivers were 
loaded with divine honors, by the blind people of 
Britain." Seneca likewise informs us, that altars were 
also erected to them : " We worship ( says he ) the 
heads of great rivers; and, altars are erected at the 
first emersion of a considerable stream out of the re* 
cesses of the earth :'* And, Servius says, "All waters 
bad their particular nymphs, presiding over them.'* 

This place is much frequented, in summer, onac- 



404 l>ENTpl!f* 

count e^f it's excelieBt GQld-bath ; which is supplied bf 
a fiDc spring, that issues from the side el a mouBtaiii, 
near the town. 

On the opposite side of the river» is 

OENTONj 

The seat of sir Henry Carr Ibfeetson, bart.; beait- 
tifuliy situate on the banks of the Wharfe, formerly 
the residence of the feipily of Fairfax 5 but^ purchas- 
ed by the grandfather of the late sir James. Ibbetson, 
bart.^ the same who buUt the present elegant and, 
nobte m<ui^ion> near the site of the ol4 one : This is. 
the third manor-edifice> within memory;: the first 
being consumed, by fire^ fr^Hi the carelesness of a 
servant; anno, 1734, having previously escaped de- 
struction by the hands of prince. Rupert, who passed 
this way, with his army, a few days before the battle 
of Marston-moor; and, was prevented from destroy* 
ing the house, by the sight of a picture of one of 
generalJFairfaxs worthy ancestors. 

The ancestor of the present baronet, rememberiaig 
that the first mansion narrowly escaped being destroy- 
ed by the ravages of war ; and was, at last, entirely 
comumed by fire,, chose the following motto, for the 
frojxt pf tbisJhpuse. 

Qv^to KBC loViS IRA, NEC IGNIS, yiJ&G POTERrlX 
FEBRUMft 



WKSTON. 403 

Kor fire, nor desolating sword, destroy. 

About four miles lower down, on the same side of 
the river, is 

WESTOX ; 

The seat of William Vavasour, esq., a descendant 
of the^niLent and honorable family of the Vavaisours > 
whoj as Camden observes, took their name from 
their office, being formerly the king's valvasor, (a de- 
gree, very little inferior to a baron). .SirMaugerle 
Vavasour,' was living, temp. William, the conqueror > 
and, was the immediate ancestor to this family. 




OF 

Plants, and Shrubs, 

XN TICE 

Neighbourhood of Knareshrough 



%^SPERULA ODORATA, Woodroof— under a 
rock, on the right-hand, coming from the dropping- 
well, to Knareshrough low-bridge. 

Asperula Cynanchica^ Squinancywort-— on the hills 
under the rocks, on the abbey-plain. 

Asplenium Ruta Mtiruria, Wa!l>-rue*-«-on most of 
the rocks about KDmesbrougb* 

Asplenium. Adiatmn Nigrum 0^r2w<7rtM?f-- amongst 
the rocksj, at Fiumpton. 

Astrcigftitis Gh/c2/p/ii/noSyWi\d Liqiiorkrc^r Liquo- 
rice- vetchr--fey the road-side, otic the otWer side of 
Flaxby, goinf on a bridle- way from tiseace, to Al- 
lerton-park. - 

Apium Graneolens, Smajlage— about the ponds, in 
Staveley town, plentifully. 

Atropa Belladonna y Deadly Nightshade — in the 
road, on the right- hand, §oing from the abbey to the 
corn-mill. 



PLANTS. 40T 

Anihericuyn Os^ifi^gum, Lancashire A&phodel — 
near the old-spaw, at Harrogate. 

Anagallis^ Pimpernel — in the marsh, below Hook- 
stones. 

Anthifllis Vidmraria^ Kidney Vetch, or Lady *s- 
Finger — In the abbey-grounds. 

Apifera, Bee Orchis — on a hill, on the north side of 
the abbey-mill. 

Czrcea Lutetiana, Enchanter's Nightshade— «n the 
long-walk, near the droppiug-well. 

. C^nofrlmsnm OJicinahy Hound's Tongue— about 
most of the cottages, on the ^bey-plain. 

Campanula Glomerafa, Little Throatwort — by the 
foot-path, above the rocks, in the abbey-fields. 

Concallaria MqjalltSj Lily of the vallc}' — on a 
scroggy-hill, on the north side of the abbey-mill. 

Colchicum Auturtmale, Meadow Saffron — in most of 
the meadow-grounds, near Knaresbrough. 

CratcegHS Ariay A\'hite-bean tree — in the rocks, on 
the right of the foot-path, leading from Knaresbrough 
to the abbey. A scarce tree. 

Cheiranthus CherrU Wall-fiower^— on most of the 
rocks, about Knaresbrough. 

Cistus Helianthemum, Sun-flower Cistus— on the 
hill, under the abbey-rocks. 

Carei Pendttla, and Carex Sylvatica'-rBe2Lr the 
dropping- well. 

Cichoriicm Inti/hus^ Wild Succory — in a lane, lead- 
ing from Grimbald-bridge, to Ribstone. 

Dipsacus Pilosus, Small wild Teasel, or Shepherd's 
staff— under the castle-rock, near the river Nidd. 

Daphne Laureola, Spurge Laurel — in the wood, 
Bear the priory-gate ; and, also, in the castle-moat. 



408 PLANTS* 

Drosero RotundafoUo^ Round-leaved Sun-Dew— 
in the marsh, near Hooks tone- craggs.* 

Euoni/mus Eunovceus, Spindle- tree — in the wood, 
near the priory-gate. 

Eupatorium Cariabinum, Hemp Agrimony — on the 
rock, at the dropping-well. 

Empetrum Nigrum — on the heath, west of Low- 
Harrog'ate. 

Fumaria Claviculata^ Climbing Furmitory — on 
Hookstone-craggs. 

Gentiana Amerella^ Autumnal Gentian — in a hilly 
pasture, joining the river Nidd, two fields below saint 
Robert's well. 

Geum Rivale, Water Avens — in Scriven-park. 

Geranium Sangiuneuin, Blood v Cranesbill— on the 
rocks, above saint Robert's chapel; and, in the ab- 
bey-fields, in the richest profusion. 

Geiiista Anglica, EnglishFurze, or Petty Whin— 
on the stray, at Harrogate. 

Galeopsis Galeobdolen, Yellow Net tie-hemp— on the 
abbey rocks, near the dropping-well. 

Hipufis Vulgaris^ Less Marsh Horse-tail-— in the 
ditches, in Staveley-cars j and, in the little corn-mill 
dam, at Boroughbridge ; also, in a pond, in Belmond- 
wood. 

Hottonia Palustris, Water Violet— in most of the 
ditches, in Staveley-cars. 

Hieracium Murorumy French or Golden Lung wort 
' — on the ruins of Knaresbrough castle ; and, also, on 
Almias- cliff. 

♦ These rocks seem to have taken their name, from a ranger of this 
forest, in ancient times. The family of Heauxton, bore for their arms^ 
gules, a chevron, betweea three leopards' heads, argent, ScsEdmQftd' 



PLANTS. 4Q9 

HijdrocharisMorsus RancBf Erogbit, or small Wa» 
ter-Lily — in the ditches, in Stavelcy-cars, abou* 
four miles from Knaresb rough. 

Hypericum Montanum^ Tutsan, or Hairy saint John's 
.wort— by the Nidd, near Knarcsbrough. 

Hypericum ElodeSj Marsh, saint Peter's wort— ;jn a 
ditch, near Hookstone-craggs. 

Lycopus Europeus, Water- horehound — in a lanep 
leading from Staveley, into the cars, 

Lithospermuin OJicinaley Gromwell — about 20 yards 
from the abbey-gate, on the left of the road, leading 
to Knarcsbrough. 

Lysimachia Nemorumt Yellow Pimpernel— on the left- 
hand, at the entrance of the low end of the long-w^k. 

hithrum Salicariar Purple-piked Loose-strife, or 
Willow-herb— about half a mile from Knarcsbrough* 
in a wet meadow, on the right-side of the road, lead- 
ing to York. 

Lathnea Squamaria, Tooth- wort- — in a wood, about 
half a mile from Ripley ; and, in the wood, near the 
dropping- well. 

Lepidium Latifoliumf Dittander, or Pepper-wort— • 
on a rock, on the left of the road, going out of kirk- 
gate, in Knarcsbrough, down to the river Nidd, lead* 
ing down about 70 stone-steps, 

Lactuca Virosa^ Wild Lettuce — on most of the irocks^ 
at Knarcsbrough. 

Lapsana IntyduSf Wild Succory — in a lane, leading 
firom Grimbald-bridgc, to Ribstone, about 300 yarda 
from the bridge. 

Lithospermum Offichtale^ Gromwell-^under the 
rocks, below the abbey-mill. 

Melissa Calamintha^ Common Calamint— amongst 
the abbey-rocks, in many places. 



410 PXANtS. 

MontiaFontmm, Water Blinks — in ditches, between 
High and Low- Harrogate. ) : 

Melampyrum St/lvaticuirij Yellow Cow-wheat— in 
a wood, near Rarewood. 

Npriphcea Lutea, Yellow Water- Lily-^in the 
ditches, on Staveley-cars, near Knaresbrough* / 

Nj/mphosa Alboy White Water-Lily — in a pond, 
near Collin-bridge, near Folly foot-lodge. 

Nepeta Cataria, Catmint, or Nep in a Hedge— go- 
ing up to Grimbald-cragg, on the right-hand, at the 
end of the lane leading into the field the cragg stands 
in, near Knaresbrough. 

Nardiis Strict a ^ Strait Mat-grass— on the stray,} at 
Harrogate, in great plenty. 

Ornithogahwi XJ^nbellatum, Common Star of Beth- 
lehem — at the low end of the long-flat, by the foot- 
path, leading to Grimbald-bridge, near Knaresbrough. 

Orabanche Major, Broom-rape — in a dry pasture, 
(amongst the broom) betwixt the villages of SpofFord 
and North-Dcighton. 

Ophrys Muscifera, Fly Ophrys — Ophrys Apifera* 
Bee Ophrys — both these sorts, grow in many pas- 
tures about the abbey, and other places, near Knares- 
brough, on limestone-grounds; also, in Goldsbrough 
wood, and in a pasture on the east side of Belraond- 
wood. 

1. Osrnunda Lunaria, Moon- wort— in a large pasture, 
belonging to a farm, called Halves, near the house, on 

' the east side thereof, about one mile from Knares- 
brough. r. 

2. Osmunda Begalisy, Flowering-Fern — close by a 
farm-house, called Susacre«, near Ripley j sjso, at 
Hookstone-craggs, near Harrogate. 



PLANTS. 



411 



X)phyrs Niduo Avis, Bird's-nest Orchis— in Golds- 
bro ugh- wood. 

Orchis Bifolia, Two-leaved Orchis — in wet grounds, 
fibout Knaresbrough, and Hookstone-craggs. 

Ophrys Niduo Avis, Bird's-ncst Orchis — in Golds- 
brough-wood. 

Op/ir^s Muscifera, Fly Orchis — in a wood, above 
the dropping-well. 

Ornithopusy Bird's- foot — in the quarry, near Plump- 
ton -bar. 

Farnassia Palustris, Grass of Parnassus— -in the mar- 
shy grounds, near saint Robert's well. 

Pari^ 2uad/'ifolia, Herb Paris, Truelove, or One 
Berry — in the long- walk, on the left-hand, a little be- 
low the cotton-mill. 

Pcrietaina Officinalis^ Pellitory of the wall — on 
Knaresbrough-churchj and, on most of the old walls^ 
about the town. 

Poll/podium Fragile, Brittle Pollypody — on the 
west side of the dropping-well, at Knaresbrough. 

Primula Farinosa, Mealy Primrose — in marshy 
places, about Knaresbrough. 

Potentilla Argeutio'^^on the rocks, at Plumpton. 
' . Pollt^podiuni Christatum, Crested Pollypody — on 
Almias-cliff^ and, on the rocks, at Plumpton. 

Pinguicula, Butterwort — :Jn the bogs, near Hook- 
stone-craggs. 

'Jlkainnus Catharticus, Buckthorne-^in a wood, 
adjoining to the abbey-gate. 

Rihes Alpinum, Alpine Currants — in the wood, 
near the dropping-well. 

Fesedii Luteola, Yellow Dyer's-^yeed — amongst the 
rocks, near Plumpton 3 and, in many places, about 
Knaresbrough. 

,2 M g 



412 PXAlJ^TS. 

Rosa ^pinosissima^ Prickly-rose— on the road-sld^> 
between Harrogate and Pannal. 

Ranunculus Hedaraceus^ Ivy^leaved- Water Crow- 
foot-— in many ditches, about Knaresbrough and Har^^ 
rogate. 

Salvia Verhenaca^ Wild Clary — amongst the rockSf 
liear the priory-gate, Knaresbrough. 

Sanicula Europcea^ Sanicle — on the right-hand, go- 
ing down long-flat lane, near Knaresbrough j and, se- 
veral other places. 

Sile7ie Nutans, Nottingham Catchfly^-^on the rocks, 
in the abbey- plain. 

Scrophularia Nodosa, Common Fig-wort*, Scrophu* 
laria j^^ma^/c^— both these grow in most of thelanes» 
Bear Knaresbrough j but, the latter, in thediches> 
or moist places. 

Serratula Tinctoria, Saw-wort— on the left-hand, 
by the cart-way, going down the abbey-field, to the 
abbey mill. 

Serapias Heleborine, Bastard Hellebore — near the 
long- walk, at Knaresbrough. Scarce. 

Schcemus Compressus, Compressed Scha&mus— ill 
marshy places, near High Harrogate. 

Salvia Pratensis, Meadow-Clary*— in the park, and 
amongst the rocks, at Plumpton. 

Sherardia Arvenis, Little Field-Madder-^in the 
abbey-field, 

Thalictrum FlavUm, Meadow-Rue— about ha^ a 
mile from Knaresbrough, on the Hght-hand side of the 
X^ad, leading to York, in a wet meadow. 

Tragopogon Pretense, Yellow Goat's Beard— -in a 
pasture, near Knaresbrough, called long-flat. 

Turritis Hirsuta^ Hairy-Tower Mustard— among 
the abbey-rocks. 



PLANTS. 413 

Uiricularia Minora Lesser-Hoodded Water-Milfoil 
—in a ditch, in the grounds of Francis Trappes, esq., 
at Nidd, near Ripley. . • 

Verbena Ojffickialis, Vervain — amongst the bushes . 
and, by the way-side, near the abbey. 

Veronica Scutellata, Narrow-«leaved Speedweli-^in 
marshy places, about High-Harrogate. 

Vaccinim M?/rti//is, Bilberry-bush — in woods, and 
on heaths,^ pcai' Knaresbrongh. 

» Viscum Album, White Misletoe — on apple-trees, ia 
the^viilage of Goldsbrqugh ;^.and> on several ash-trees^ 
in a field, called Gunrith, near the said village; also, 
OJX several crab- trees, near Rudding-hall. 



The sleep of flowers. 



^INN^EUS's observation extends to near 50 species, 
which are stibject to this law; amongst which, are the 
following : The Little Convolvulus^ or Bind- weed, opens 
/it's flowers,' between five and six o'clock, in the morn- 
ing; and shuts them, in the evening: The flowers of 
the Dai/'Lily, open about five in the morning ; and 
shut, about seven or eight in the evening : The flowers 
of the White Water Lily, lie upon the surface of the 
>¥ater, till about seven o'clock in the morning, when 
the.stalk is elevated above the aurface, and the fiower 
expands; in which situation, it continues, till about 
four, in the afternoon ; when it sinks to the surface of 
the water, and closes again ; &c., &c.. 

These flowers, will perform their vigilice, if set in 
a phial of water, within doors, for several mornings, 
successively. 

2 M 3 



**^c^&rhi^ 



Harrogat] 


E, TO BAfH. 




Uttns. 




MI LIS. 


HaREW00D7— % 


Birmingham . 


16—122 


Leeds ... S— 15 


BroomsgTove 


13—135 


Wakefield . 8— 23 


Worcester . 


12—147 


Barnsley . . 10 — S3 


Upton . . 


10—157 


Sheffield . . 13— 46 


Gloucester . 


16—173 


Chesterfield . 12— 58 


Froster . . . 


12—185 


Derby • . . 24— 82 


Petty France 


14—199 


Burton . . 11—93 


Bath . . . 


15—214 


Litchfield • . 13—106 







Harrogate, to Bridlington-Quay. 

York .... 20—20 Sledmire . . 12—44 
Garraby new-inn 12—32 BridUngton.Quayl7--6l 

Harrogate, to Buxton. 

Harewooa . . 7-- 7 Grindleford- 
Leeds • . . 8—15 bridge . 10—66 

Wakefield . 8—23 Tid«well . - 7—63 

Barnsley . . 10—33 Buxton . . . 7--70 
Sheffield . . 13—40 

Harrogate, to BlackpooIi. 

Skiptou. . . Sl-*«1 Gisbournc. . ll*^8S 



ROADS. 



415 



MILES. 




yiLif. 


Clithcro . . 9—41 


Kirkham . . 


9—73 


Blackburn . . 11—52 


Blackpool . . 


U— 84 


Preston . • . 12-— 64 






HARROGATBi TO 


, Cheltenha 


M. 


Harewood . . 7— 7 


Burton . . . 


11— 93 


Leeds . • . 8 — 15 


Litchfield . . 


13—106 


Wakefield . /"''8— 23 


Birmingham . 


16—122 


Barnsley . . 10 — ^33 


Broomsgrove 


13—135 


Sheffield . . 1^—46 


Worcester . 


12—147 


Chesterfield . 12—58 


Tukesbury . 


15—162 


Derby . . . ^4— 82 


Cheltenham . 


9-'171 


HARROaATE, TO Edinburgh. 


West road. 




Boroughbridge 10— 10 


Allinson-Bank 


12—117 


Catterick . . 22— 32 


Lockerby . , 


14—131 


Greta-Bridge 15— 47 


MofTat . . . 


15—146 


Brougb . . 18—65 


Beild . . . 


17—163 


l>enrith . . 22— 87 


Lintown . . 


16—179 


Carlisle . . 18—105 


Edinburgh , 


16—195 


Harrogate, to Edinburgh. 


North i 


'Odd. 




Boroughbridge 10^ 10 


Belford . , 


14—126 


North-Allerton 20— 30 


Berwick . • 


15—141 


Darlington . 15— 45 


Old Cambus . 


17—158 


Durham . • 18—03 


Dunbar . • 


lO— 168 


Newcastle . . 15— 78 


Haddington . 


11—179 


Morpeth . . 15— 93 


Edinbur^ . 


17—190 


Alnwick. • . 19— *U2 







41() 


ROADS. 




Harrogate, 


TO Glasgow 






■ MILES. 




"' WlLEf, 


^feipon . . . 


11— 11 


Ecclesseeham 


'9-^1^3 


Catterick . . 


16— 27 


Lockerby . . 


d-^129 


Greta-bridge 


15— 42 


Moffat . . 


13—142 


BrQugh . . 


18— 60 


Elvan-bridge 


13—155 


Penrith . . 


22— 82 


Douglass-mill 


18-173 


Carlisle . . 


.18—190 


_ Haijiiltdn .' '. 


16—189 


^Xongtown . 


.9—169 


■ Gl^gow / ^• 


rir-^^oa 


3 'Gretna-Green 


'5—114 




"■lOZii^ ■:!' 


v.v ■ • - . . 




'i.—i-'i . . ^^pl^nitM 


Hari 


iOGATE, 


T(i Hi:^LYHEA3i^.' ■'• ;" 


Harewood . 


. ■ '7— 7 


Holywell ^ .< 


i7Mii 


Bradford . 


. 15—22 


Saint Asaph . 


12—123 


Halifax . . 


.' 8—36^ 


^ OblhwSy-^^rry 


19—142 


Littleborough 


. 12—42 


*fiangor-ferry 


17—159 


Manchester 


. l6-?58 


Gwipda. , . . , 


12—171 


jTWarrington , 


18—76 


Holyhead ■ ; 


M-m 


Chester . . 


^M:^^ 




■ . . -•'■■: f 

i70 


f "r 


M'^q- 


.-B^^-^ 


.<: 



Ha^rrogate, TO the' Lakes, 'th:ro1j(3h 

'n *^:u WeNSLEYDALE. '^Ktc'j 

Ripon . . . 1 1—11 Hawes .... 9—47 

Masham. . . 10 — 21 Sedbergh . . 17 — 64 

Middleham . 8—29 Kendal . , . 10—74 

Wensley . . 3—32 Bownessj^Qn fir/r .-g 

Aysgarth . . 6-«r38 ot -Wtndermeiife, i 6r— 80 

■ ' " '^•■i- - -C: . \. :.' .; ...(I 

Harrogate, to the X^akes^j « 



Boroughbridge 
Catterick , . 
Greta-bridge . 15 — 47 



10j-7l0 

22—32 



Brough 
Penrith 
Keswick 



18— :65 

22—87 
18^105 



ROADS. 417 

Harrogate, to the Lakes. 



MILIS." 


MlltS. 


Skipton . • . 21—^1 


Kendal . . . 12—67 


Settle . . . 16—37 


B<^wness, on 


Kirby^Lonsdale 18 — 55 


Windermere 6—73 


Harrogate, 


TO Lancaster. 


Skipton . . . 21—21 


Hornby , . . 13^-6J 


Settle . . . 16—37 


Lancaster . • O— 70 


Ingletott * . 11—48 





Harrogate, to Liverpool, bySkiptok. 



Skipton . . 


. 21—21 


Rose-Whittle . 


10—62 


Gisbourne . . 


. 11—32 


Ormskirk . • 


13—75 


Glithero . 


. 9—41 


Liverpool . . 


13—88 


Blackburn . 


. 11—52 







Harrogate, to Liverpool, by Hare* 

WOOD. 



Harewood • , 7— 7 


Manchester . 


16—58 


Bradford . . 15—22 


Warrington . 


18— 76 


Halifax . . . 8—30 


Prescot . • . 


10—86 


Littleborough 12--^42 


Liverpool , . 


8—94 


Harrogate, 


TO London. 




Wetherby . . 8— 8 


Newark . • • 


13—75 


Ferrybridge , 16—24 


Grantham . , 


14—89 


Doncaster • . 15—39 


Stamford . . 


21—110 


Bawtry . . . 8 — 47 


Stilton • . 


14—124 


Tuxfbrd . • l>--a2 


Bugden • . 


IS-— 137 



418 



ROADS. 



MILES. ' Mitts* 

Biggleswade . 16 — 153 Barnet . . 8 — 188 
Stevenage . 15 — 168 London . . 11 — 199 
Hatfield . . 12— 180 

Harrogate, to London, by Leeds. 



Harewood . 


. • 7— 7^ 


Oakham . . 


10—116 


Leeds' . . . 


8—15 


Uppingham • 


6—122 


Wakefield . 


8—23 


Kettering . •. 


14—136 


Bank-Top . 


12—35 


Highkm Ferfers 


9—145 


Sheffield .. , 


12—47 


Bedford . . 


16—160 


Chesterfiield ', 


13—66 


Hitchen . . 


"16—176 


Mansfield . 


13—73 


Welwyn . . 


9—185 


JSfpttingham 


.14-^^7 


Barnet . . 


14—199 


MeitoB-Mowbrayl9— 1Q6 


London . . 


11—210 


Harrogate, 


TO Matlock. 




Harewood . . 7 — 7 


./Sheffield" . . 


13—46 


Leeds ... 8—15 


Chesterfield . 


12—58 


Wakefield . , 8—23 


Matlock . • 


11—69 


Barnsley 


. 10—33 







Harrogate, to Park-gate. 



Harewood . • 7 — 7 

Bradford . . 15—22 
Halifax . . . 8—30 

Littieborough 12 — 42 



Manchester . 16 — 58 

Warrington . 1 1 — 69 

Chester . . 18—^7 

Park-gafe . , 12—99 



Harrogate, TO Port-Patrick. 



Kipon 



11-^11 Leeming-lane 10-^ ai 



ROADS. 



419 



Catterick-bridgell-r .32 
Greta-brid2;e , ^ I4— -. 46 
Brough 
New-Inn . 



' " " MI Ljm^^H WWi i^ m-Mmm.. 



-UALS£. 

fs— 144 



Penrith -k 
Carlisle . 
Langtown 
Annan 



10— 74 

12— 86 
18—104 
10—114 
1^—126 



Dumfries . 

Carlingwork . 17— I6I 

Gatehouse, . 14 — 175 

N«wton-Stuart I7 — 192 

Glenlucie , 16— -208 

Stranraer . . 10 — ■218 

Port-Patrick . 7— -225 



Harrogate, to Preston. 



tSkipton . 
Gisbourne 
Clithero 



21—21 

11—32 

9—41 



Blackburn 
Preston . 



11—52 
12—64 



Harrogate, to Scarbrough. 



York . 
Malton 



20—20 
18—38 



Scarbrough .22' 




INDEX. 



xILrchers . ISI 

Almias-clifF - - 175 

Alexander's-hiil - 286 

Aldburgh - - - 309 
AUerton-Mauleverer S60 

Becket, Thomas - 21 

Beckwith-shaw - 126 

Bilton - - - • 141 

Brereton - - - l64 

Srame-hall - - ^1 

Briraham-park - 303 

Boroughbridge - 329 

Bond-Gates - - 349 

Brimham-rocks - 351 

Benningburgh - 37 1 

Bridges - - - - 60 

Brandrith-craggs - SB4 

Bolton-priory - - SB6 

Court Leet • • 60 

Charity-school ^ 80 

Clint • -- • - ISO 

Conyng-garth - 153 

Conyngham-house 14S 

Copgrove - • - l60 

Cowthorp ... 279 

Claro-hill ... 365 

Dropping.well - 86 

C^etttoa- - • • 404 



EUinthorp - - 3«4 

Ellsbaw-hill . . 230 

;Free-sebool - - 79 

Fort-montague - 93 

Fewston • . • 139 

Foi^sils - - - • J87 

Famham ... 158 

Fountains-abbey • 238 

Follyfoot ... 284 

Farnley .... 396 
Gaveston, (his char* 

ter) ... 2^ 

Gates-hill ... 154 

Goldesburgh • - 260 

Hay-park . - - 103 

Harrogate - - . 108 

Harlow-hill . - 123 

Horn-hank ... 125 

Heywra-park - - 127 

Hampsthwaite- - 129 

Harewood^house - 179 

I..UU , Church . 1 82 

Castle . 185 

Heddingley - - 199 

Hackfall ... 253 

How-hill . . - 276 

Hunsingore • • 283 

Haslewood • • • 304 



INDEX. 



421 



Helperby - - - 345 
Jenkins, Henry - 250 
Ingman thorp - - 278 
Ilkley - - - - 402 
Knaresbrough-castle 20 
' Fairs - 60 

Streets, 

&c. - - - 56 

— Family of 6 1 

C hurch 66 

• Vicars 78 

Forest 107 

Killinghall - - - 132 
Kirkstall-abbey - 199 
Kirk-Deigbton - 277 
Kirby-hall - - - 370 
Levens-hall - - 133 
Leeds - - - - 196 
Michael-how-hill 253 
Masham - - - 256 
Minskip - - - 309 
Marton - - - - 328 
Marston (battle of) 378 
!Nidd river - - - 53 

hall - - - 165 

Newton-hall - - 173 
North-Deighton - 275 
Newby - - - - 339 
Nun-Monkton - 370 
Old-spaw - - - 109 
Obelisks - - - 334 
Otley - • - - 401 
Piepoudre, court of 47 
Popular customs - 84 



Priory - . - - 94 

Pigs of lead, roman 135 

Pontefract - - 206 

Plumpton - - - 286 

Plants - - - - 406 
Rock-house - - ' 90 

Ripley - - - - I66 

Rugemont - - - 179 

Ripon - - - - 213 

Ribstone - - - 266 

Rudding-hall - - 284 

Red-house - - - 371 

Sunday-schools - 81 

Shipton, Mother - 87 
Saint Robert's-chapel 88 

■ cave 10! 

Sulphur-wells - - 111 

Scriven - - - - 145 

Scotton - - - - 155- 

Sandal-castle - - 203 

Studley - - - - 233 

Spoiford - - - 293: 

Stockeld - - - 298 

Skipton - - - 388 

Tewit-well - - 111 

Tanfielci' - - - 257 

Thorp-Arch - - 302 

Tadcaster - - - 305 

Thornton-bridge - 344 

Topcliffe - - - 345 

Wakefield - - " 202 

Wetherby - - - 29a 

Whixley . ^ ^ 366 

Weston- ... 405 



2 N 



OBE, OM TIME, 

A. XL conqu*ring pow*r! whose mighty sway, 
The humble, and the proud, obey ; 

And own thy fatal rod : 
Thou wast, ere light itself began, 
And long before ungrateful man 

Was quicken'd, from the clod. 

Equal with chaos, and old night; 
Before the sun was call'd to light. 

Thou held'st thy potent sway : 
Thou saw'st each lofty temple rise — 
Saw pyramids attempt the skies. 

And saw them all decay. 

What now remains of ancient fame ? 
The grecian, and the roman name, 

Are but in ruins seen : 
The nodding arch, the moss-grown pile^ 
But speak, in an imperfect style, 

How glorious they have been. 

But, why appeal to Greece and Rome- 
Have we not monuments, at home. 

That pfbve, alike, thy power ? 
Yes, — Britain can, alas 1 display 
Sad trophies of thy ruthless sway. 

By many a fading tower. 

When Knaresbrough's ruin'd walls wc trace« 
With melancholy mufing pace, 

Thy ravages deplore ! 
Those towers, once superbly great, 
Adorn'd with lofty rooms of statCj 

TWir grandeur ngw oo more. 



ODB, ON TIME. 423 

For, as thou dost incessant pass, 

With sharpened scythe, and circling glass, 

All nature is thy prey ; 
All must submit to thy awards, 
A castle is a house of cards, 

And princes, common clay. 

No more the priory^ s matin bell 
Awakes the morn, with solemn knell, 

To call the country round ; 
In dust her mould'ring ruins lie — 
No more her sculptures strike the eye, 

And mute »s each awful sound. 

The earth itself, the sea, and sky, 
The shining worlds that roll on high, 

All hasten to decay ; 
That great and glorious orb of light. 
The sun ! must sink in endless night, 

At the great final day. 

Then happy they, whom virtue guides 
Down life's tempest'ous stormy tides! 

To joys sublime they soar ; 
Where chilling winters never come, 
3ut springs eternal ever bloom, 

And sorrows are no more. 




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